Under the new law, handlers will have the first opportunity to adopt the dogs one they are retired.

The bi-partisan Military Working Dogs Act of 2015 was introduced by U.S. Rep. Frank LoBiondo (R-N.J.) and Senator Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.).

The Defense Department estimates there are more than 2,000 working dogs in various military branches worldwide. Until now, dogs could only retire in the United States if service members paid for their travel and other related costs.

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Carleigh Knight (left) and her sister, Natalie Rogovin, look at Christmas ornaments while shopping at Kudzu Antiques + Modern in Decatur on Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2025. (Natrice Miller/AJC)

Credit: Natrice Miller