Veteran questions VA policy on therapy dog access

A local Vietnam-era Veteran is seeking clarification on Veterans Affairs policy regarding the presence of therapy dogs in VA facilities, specifically at the Visalia CBOC.

David Gonzales, an 82-year-old Veteran with severe PTSD, receives care at the Fresno VA hospital and primarily uses the Visalia clinic. He reported being told at the Visalia clinic that he cannot bring his 13-pound therapy dog, even into the waiting room, unless the dog is a "service dog" permitted on VA property.

Gonzales stated that his therapy dog is well-trained, rarely barks, and has never had an accident indoors. The dog is trained to relieve itself before entering any building. Gonzales described the dog as inseparable from him, providing essential therapeutic support.

"My question is this a VA policy or not," Gonzales wrote. He noted that he regularly sees small dogs at the Fresno VA hospital without issue, though he acknowledges that larger dogs he observes typically wear service dog vests.

The Veteran's inquiry highlights a common point of confusion for pet owners and handlers regarding the distinction between service animals and therapy animals, and their respective access rights within healthcare facilities.