HARRISBURG, PA – June 10, 2025 – Representatives from Life Changing Service Dogs For Veterans (LCSDV) attended the 2025 Working Animal Appreciation Day at the Pennsylvania Capitol Complex, participating in a high-profile event hosted by Senator Doug Mastriano that honored police and military working dogs, search and rescue animals, therapy animals, and service dogs.
Bill Jeffcoat, Tom Anderson, and Craig Hodgkins, accompanied by Craig’s Medical Service Dog, Foxy, represented the organization during this year’s ceremony. In addition to the celebration, LCSDV used the opportunity to meet directly with state lawmakers to advocate for critical legislation supporting the integrity of service animals.
Craig and Bill discussed the Service Animal Integrity Act with Senator Devlin Robinson and spent extended time with Senator Mastriano, the primary sponsor of the Bill, which is currently under consideration in the Senate. Meanwhile, Tom Anderson and Craig and Foxy met with Representative Natalie Mihalek, a co-sponsor of House Bill 2392, the corresponding House legislation.
These meetings focused on strengthening public policy to protect legitimate service dogs from the increasing challenge of fraudulent claims. The group also distributed educational materials, including the acclaimed video, The Miracle of Service Dogs, showcasing the life-saving roles these animals play for veterans.
“This event was an incredible opportunity not just to honor our four-legged heroes but to push forward legislation that will protect their work and the people who rely on them,” said Hodgkins.
To learn more about the organization and its advocacy efforts, visit www.PaDogsForVets.org.
