Protecting America’s Working Dogs Act of 2026

This legislation mandates the Attorney General to establish a grant program aimed at assisting with the medical expenses of qualified working dogs. To be implemented within one fiscal year of enactment and for four subsequent fiscal years, the program will award grants of up to $575,000 to eligible nonprofit organizations. To qualify for these grants, nonprofit organizations must primarily exist to care for qualified working dogs, provide financial assistance to their owners, and dedicate at least 70 percent of their spending to direct program expenses. Funds received must be used exclusively for covered medical expenses , which include veterinarian visits, procedures, diagnostic tests, and medications for these animals. A qualified working dog is defined as either a retired dog that served the Federal Government in military, security, or law enforcement, or a service dog assisting a veteran or retired federal law enforcement officer. The Attorney General is also required to report to Congress on the number of dogs assisted and their average medical expenses, ensuring support for these invaluable animals.