K–9 Hero Act of 2026

Key Points

• This bill creates a new grant program to help pay for the medical bills of retired federal working dogs. These dogs include those who served in the military, the Border Patrol, the Secret Service, and the TSA.
• The program would provide up to $5 million each year to nonprofit organizations. These groups then use the money to help the dogs' new owners pay for surgeries, medications, and regular vet visits.
• Currently, people who adopt these retired dogs often have to pay for expensive medical treatments themselves or rely on charities. This bill aims to ensure these animals get the care they need after their service ends.
• Each nonprofit can receive up to $1 million per year. The Department of Defense and the Department of Homeland Security will manage the program and track how the money helps the dogs' health over time.

Impact Analysis

Govbase has not yet run an impact analysis on this legislation.