WHEREAS, the human-canine bond provides companionship, assistance, and emotional support, transforming the lives of those who rely on it; and

WHEREAS, in the Commonwealth of Virginia, approximately one in ten adults lives with a disability, yet only about 13,300 active service dogs from accredited training programs nationwide are available to meet the growing need; and 

WHEREAS, more than 12,450 dogs are currently in training through accredited service dog programs, but demand still exceeds supply, with waiting lists ranging from one to five years for individuals seeking a qualified service dog; and

WHEREAS, professionally trained service dogs assist individuals with physical, sensory, psychiatric, and developmental disabilities by performing specialized tasks such as retrieving items, opening doors, providing balance support, alerting to medical conditions, and applying trained tactile or deep-pressure support to mitigate symptoms; and

WHEREAS, these highly skilled dogs not only increase safety and independence but also reduce reliance on caregivers, foster greater community participation, and enhance overall quality of life; and

WHEREAS, National Service Dog Month raises awareness of the essential role of service dogs, the rigorous training and standards they meet, and the protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act that ensure handlers have the right to access public spaces with their service dogs; and

WHEREAS, Virginians are encouraged to show respect for service dogs and their handlers by recognizing their working status, avoiding unnecessary interaction, and supporting efforts to expand training opportunities to meet the growing demand;   

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize September 20, 2025, as SERVICE DOG DAY in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.