By Nick Starling, Chairman of Skyscraper Farm and Father of AgARDA
Nick Starling is Chairman of Skyscraper Farm and the policy entrepreneur behind AgARDA (Agricultural Advanced Research and Development Authority), a federal innovation initiative included in the 2018 Farm Bill. With years of experience in policy advocacy and a deep commitment to both veterans and animals, Nick is now turning his focus to Puppy PAC, a political action committee aimed at solving two pressing issues: the euthanasia of adoptable dogs and the financial burdens veterans face in caring for their service dogs.
The Problem: A Desperate Need for Change
The numbers are startling. Every year, millions of adoptable dogs are euthanized due to overcrowded shelters. Simultaneously, veterans struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other service-related conditions face a financial burden in maintaining the care of their service dogs. For too many veterans, these essential companions are more than just pets; they are lifelines to managing daily life and mental health. Yet, there is no national standard ensuring these dogs receive the medical care they need without incurring high out-of-pocket costs.
This systemic problem has been on Starling’s radar for years. As a U.S. Army Ranger veteran, he knows firsthand the emotional and therapeutic value of service dogs. As an advocate for veterans, he understands the critical need for reliable support services for those who have given so much. After years of direct involvement in veterans’ advocacy and animal welfare, Starling saw an opportunity to make a difference by addressing both issues simultaneously.
The Birth of Puppy PAC
In the coming months, Starling will formally launch Puppy PAC, a political action committee with two primary objectives:
- End the Euthanasia of Adoptable Dogs
The heartbreaking reality is that millions of dogs in the U.S. are put down annually because shelters simply do not have enough space or resources to care for them. Starling believes this tragic situation can be solved by establishing regional “Puppy Parks.” These parks, inspired by Costa Rica’s Territorio de Zaguates, would provide open, natural environments for dogs to live in until they are adopted. This model would not only alleviate the strain on shelters but would offer dogs a chance at a life they deserve. - Support Veterans by Covering Service Dog Medical Costs
Veterans with PTSD, mobility challenges, and other conditions often rely on service dogs for emotional and physical support. However, many veterans are burdened with the cost of veterinary care for these dogs. Puppy PAC aims to press the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to cover medical bills for certified service dogs. Ensuring veterans never have to pay out-of-pocket for their service dog’s veterinary care will give them peace of mind, knowing their loyal companions are fully supported.
As Starling explains, “Too many adoptable dogs are put down because shelters run out of space, and too many veterans are forced to carry the financial burden of caring for the service dogs that carry them. Puppy PAC will fight to fix both problems. No Kill. No Cost.”
Overcoming Obstacles: Turning Vision Into Reality
Launching Puppy PAC is no small feat. It requires significant funding, organizational resources, and grassroots support. But Starling is no stranger to these challenges. His experience with AgARDA taught him how to navigate complex bureaucracies and champion policy change at the federal level. This experience, combined with his passion for animals and veterans, makes him uniquely positioned to lead Puppy PAC toward success.
One of the most significant hurdles Puppy PAC will face is gaining political and public support for its dual mission. Advocacy groups on both sides—animal welfare and veterans’ rights—are often siloed, with little crossover. Starling, however, believes that by framing the issues together, Puppy PAC can unite diverse groups of activists, lawmakers, and concerned citizens. By showing the mutual benefit to both veterans and animals, Puppy PAC has the potential to create a movement that transcends traditional political divides.
In addition, the push for federal funding to cover service dog medical costs will not be easy. The VA and USDA have yet to provide comprehensive support for veterans’ service dogs, and convincing them to change their policies will require diligent lobbying and a broad coalition of supporters.
What Makes Puppy PAC Different?
Puppy PAC’s uniqueness lies in its dual focus: improving the lives of both animals and veterans simultaneously. While other initiatives might focus on one cause, Puppy PAC brings them together in a way that amplifies the impact for both groups. This integrated approach offers a refreshing, innovative model of social change that appeals to those who care about the welfare of animals and the well-being of our nation’s veterans.
Moreover, Puppy PAC is rooted in Starling’s deep, personal connection to both causes. As a veteran, he understands the profound role service dogs play in a veteran’s recovery. He has seen firsthand how these animals can provide comfort, security, and independence. At the same time, as a passionate advocate for animal welfare, Starling has long been committed to improving the lives of animals and finding lasting solutions to the problems of pet overpopulation and euthanasia.
A Call to Action: Join the Movement
As Puppy PAC continues to grow, the organization is actively recruiting supporters from all walks of life. Whether you are an animal lover, a veteran, or someone who believes in the power of political change, there are numerous ways to get involved:
- Donors: Your financial support is crucial to Puppy PAC’s success. Every contribution helps further the cause and enables Puppy PAC to launch high-impact campaigns aimed at ending dog euthanasia and providing veterans with the care they deserve for their service dogs.
- Fundraisers: Puppy PAC is seeking passionate fundraisers to help with campaigns and outreach efforts. By helping raise money and awareness, you will play a pivotal role in the movement.
- Activists: Puppy PAC is building a nationwide grassroots network of activists. Join the movement and help spread the word about Puppy PAC’s goals and mission.
- Board Members: Puppy PAC is assembling a board of experienced professionals in veterans’ affairs, animal welfare, tourism, agriculture, and fundraising. If you have expertise in these areas, your input could help shape the future of Puppy PAC.
Nick Starling’s experience as a policy entrepreneur and advocate for both veterans and animals makes him an ideal leader for this ambitious cause. With Puppy PAC, he’s not just hoping for change—he’s creating it. And with your help, we can ensure that dogs find loving homes and veterans receive the support they need, both for themselves and their service dogs.
Join Puppy PAC Today
Puppy PAC is just beginning its journey, and the potential for change is vast. As the organization continues to gather momentum, Starling’s leadership and commitment to these causes offer a hopeful path forward for both animals and veterans. To learn more about Puppy PAC, get involved, or donate to the cause, reach out to us at [email protected]. Together, we can help bring about a future where no dog is euthanized and no veteran is left to bear the cost of caring for their service dog.
About Nick Starling
Nick Starling is the Chairman of Skyscraper Farm and the founder of AgARDA, a federal innovation initiative embedded in the 2018 Farm Bill. With years of experience advocating for veterans, animals, and agricultural reform, Starling is now applying his expertise and passion to Puppy PAC, a new political action committee dedicated to ending the euthanasia of adoptable dogs and ensuring veterans never pay for their service dog’s veterinary care.
About Puppy PAC
Puppy PAC is a political action committee focused on two core missions: ending the euthanasia of adoptable animals and ensuring veterans never pay out-of-pocket for their service dog’s medical care. By creating regional Puppy Parks and lobbying the VA and USDA to cover service dog expenses, Puppy PAC is striving to build a better future for both veterans and animals in the U.S.
