September is Service Dog Month: How Service Dogs and VA Ratings Support Veterans
- bwelts3
- Sep 17
- 2 min read
Every September, we recognize National Service Dog Month, a time to honor the incredible dogs who change—and even save—the lives of Veterans across the country. For many who have served, a service dog provides more than companionship. These highly trained partners can help with mobility, provide comfort during moments of anxiety, reduce symptoms of PTSD, and give veterans renewed confidence in their daily lives.
At United Veteran Benefits Agency (UVBA), we know firsthand how critical resources like service dogs can be. But we also know that navigating the VA disability rating system can feel overwhelming—and without the right rating, veterans may not have access to all the benefits and support they deserve. That’s where we step in.
Why VA Ratings Matter for Veterans with Service Dogs
Your VA disability rating determines not just monthly compensation, but also eligibility for programs and resources that can make a real difference in your quality of life. A higher rating can mean access to services that help cover the costs associated with having a service dog, medical care, and other benefits that support independence.
We’ve seen how life-changing the right rating can be—not just financially, but emotionally. It can open the door to opportunities and tools that allow veterans to thrive outside of uniform.
Partnering with K9s on the Front Line
We’re proud to support organizations like K9s on the Front Line, who are making an incredible impact by providing service dogs to veterans at no cost. Their mission is simple but powerful: to give veterans the support they need through the healing bond between a veteran and their service dog.
K9s on the Front Line has already changed countless lives by pairing highly trained service dogs with veterans struggling with PTSD and other service-related challenges. Their work is closely aligned with our mission at UVBA—ensuring veterans receive the resources, recognition, and support they earned through their service.
A Shared Mission: Serving Those Who Served
This Service Dog Month, we celebrate the amazing role service dogs play in the veteran community. And we renew our commitment to helping veterans secure the benefits they’ve earned through their service. Whether it’s through guiding veterans to the VA rating they deserve or supporting partners like K9s on the Front Line, our mission is the same: empower veterans to live fuller, healthier lives.
If you or a veteran you know could benefit from a service dog, check out K9s on the Front Line. And if you’re ready to make sure your VA rating reflects your service, our team at UVBA is here to help.