Healey signs Dakota’s Law, extending care benefits to retired K-9s
SPRINGFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM) -- Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey signed a new law Tuesday that will establish care benefits for retired police and military K-9s.
It’s called Dakota’s Law, named after a K-9 who responded to the Boston Marathon bombings and inspired the K-9 PTSD Center in Seekonk. After the bombings, Dakota suffered from lasting physical and psychological effects of his service and he later crossed the rainbow bridge in 2022.
Until this point, the K-9’s handlers and adopted families had to shoulder their post-retirement costs. However, now, they’ll have access to funds to support medical and trauma-related care. Dakota’s handler, James Lamonte, is celebrated the signing and said he’s happy that it’s part of Dakota’s legacy.
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