Republican objection effectively neutered a bill to care for military war/work dogs (MWD)
When a handler (usually a servive member of the armed forces) adopts his MWD, the handler is responsible for transporting the dog to his or her residence, no matter where in the world the dog is, which can be incredibly difficult and expensive for a former handler. In 2012, Sen. Richard Blumenthal, a Democrat from Connecticut, and Rep. Walter Jones, a Republican from North Carolina, drafted the Canine Members of the Armed Services Act.
First, it would have required retired (and often far-flung) MWDs to be transported back to Lackland [Air Force Base in Texas] — or another suitable location — to be put up for adoption. Second, it would have established a veterinary-care system for retired MWDs. And third, it would have reclassified MWDs as “canine members of the armed services” rather than “equipment,” allowing dogs that performed great acts of courage or merit to be recognized and decorated for their service.
The veterinary care system would not have used any federal money. While it would have been run by the Department of Defense, it would have relied on a private network of nonprofit veterinary providers. But that wasn't frugal enough for the Senate Armed Services Committee. According to a Senate staffer who asked to remain anonymous to avoid complicating future negotiations over this issue, "Republican objections" effectively neutered the bill.
It is assumed that Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) is responsible for revising the bill in such a way that it made essentially a toothless amendment to the 2013 National Defense Authorization Bill.
This leaves the former handlers who have a personal bond with these dogs on the hook for any veterinary care.
Unacceptable and shameful, Senator! Revise your stance!
