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Rehabs And Dogs
The impact that our pets have on us is huge, especially for our mental health, so it would make sense to want them by your side as you navigate the rehab process. In recent years rehab centers have recognized the many benefits in creating pet-friendly centers for those who want the comfort and support of their furry friend by their side as science shows that your pet can help stabilize emotions, alleviate stress and reduce anxiety all of which are part of the recovery process Dog friendly rehab centers create an environment where you and your pet can go through the healing process together creating a more supportive experience all around.
Rise of Therapy Dogs & Addiction
Their ability to provide comfort and emotional support has made the use of therapy animals, with most being dogs, extremely popular over the last decade. Therapy animals are used to provide companionship and comfort at home, in schools, hospitals, and therapeutic settings. Life can be overwhelming to deal with but with a therapy animal by your side, studies show you will have less stress and anxiety. The rapid growth in popularity in therapy animals is a testament to the benefits they provide for our mental health!
Science Behind Dogs & Addiction
Therapy animals, especially dogs, provide so many positive benefits for us psychologically, emotionally and even physiologically so it’s not surprising that there have been so many studies regarding these benefits. The science shows that these animals can benefit us by lowering blood pressure, reducing cortisol levels, boosting oxytocin and serotonin and ease the symptoms of anxiety all of which are important while navigating life, especially in settings such as rehab. As much as we wish we could and even try to, humans just aren’t able to provide the same consistent, non judgmental support that animals can and the more we study the more we find out about how incredible these animals truly are.
How Dogs Can Support Recovery
Pets are amazing when it comes to supporting you during the recovery process. The love they provide is truly unconditional and having a companion by your side as you navigate the process of recovery can make a world of difference. Not only do you get to have your best friend there for you every step of the way so you aren’t lonely, they also provide a sense of purpose and help establish a routine as pets need to be actively taken care of by their owner. Establishing a routing and feeling a sense of purpose are huge factors in a recovery journey and sometimes it’s hard to find these on our own but with a pet these things come a lot easier.
The Importance of Dog-Friendly Rehab Centers
Rehab centers that pride themselves as pet-friendly have recognized the amazing benefits that our furry companions can provide humans who are struggling with addition. By allowing a pet-friendly center they are creating an environment that feels more comforting and supports healing through love and companionship which non pet-friendly centers may be lacking. Being able to bring their pet with them to rehab may very well be the factor that can really push someone towards the sober healthy life they are so desperately trying to work for.
Benefits of Having A Dog While Going To Rehab
Dog-Friendly rehabs offer a unique recovery experience like never before. For many individuals pets can make the challenging process of treatment more manageable by providing a sense of comfort and emotional support unmatched by anything else. In this section, we will explore the key benefits of rehabs that embrace the benefits of allowing dogs as part of the treatment journey.
Emotional Support and Comfort
The emotional support and comfort dogs can provide is truly unmatched by anything else on this earth. They provide unconditional love and affection which is such a huge benefit in the world of rehab as the process can feel tough and isolating. In a time where we feel our most vulnerable, having an emotional connection with a dog who sticks by your side helping you feel grounded and secure can truly be the difference that makes you choose to keep fighting to get better.
Reducing Anxiety and Stress
In settings such as rehab anxiety and stress levels can be pretty high as it’s a daunting road to travel down and it can be tough to navigate these feelings on our own. But why do it alone when your dog is the best solution? Just being in the presence of a dog naturally reduces our stress levels. They are non judgmental beings whose ability to provide a calming environment is unmatched. Sometimes just passing by a dog in everyday life can cause a smile even on some of the worst days. They are amazing in their ability to promote relaxation and reduce your anxiety and stress.
For more information on how you can reduce anxiety and stress, click here
Building Routine and Responsibility
Having a routine and learning responsibility are major factors when it comes to healing, getting sober and building a healthy life. Sometimes it can be hard to learn to be responsible for ourselves because we don’t see the benefits right away. Having a dog that must be cared for aids in learning how to build a routine and be responsible as they need regular care from feeding, walking, and grooming and even regular vet visits to make sure they are up to date on shots and overall healthy. Providing care for another being can give individuals a sense of purpose and a way to keep themselves accountable. The bond formed with the animal that is being cared for reinforces the importance of following through in their care which can in turn create follow-through in personal aspects of life as well such as getting through a rehab program.
Types of Pet-Friendly Rehabs
As the knowledge of the benefits of therapy animals grows so does the demand for pet-friendly facilities that allow you to include your pet in the recovery journey. As we humans are so different and have different needs when it comes to a healing it’s natural that rehab isn’t a one-size fits all situation there are different types so you can find the best one for you.
Inpatient Rehabs that Allow Dogs
Firstly, there are inpatient rehab centers where you are able to go live onsite with your pet while going through a structured program. An inpatient program provides a more structured environment with 24/7 support. These facilities would have pet friendly accommodations such as dedicated pet spaces as well as include your pet in your specific rehab program.
Outpatient Programs for Dog Owners
Another option would be to go with an outpatient program where you can continue life outside of a rehab facility while being able to work your program and have your pet by your side. These facilities will also have pet accommodations but since you and your pet won’t be living on site there might not be as many. This would be a more flexible option if you need to maintain work or other commitments outside of your healing journey.
Luxury Rehabs That Are Dog-Friendly
Lastly, for those who would like a more luxury rehab experience there are options that provide high-end pet-friendly accommodations. These sites go as far as to provide large pet-friendly suites, canine care services, and large outdoor spaces for your pet to play. With these options you should have no problem finding a program that works for you and your pet!
Click Here To Learn More About Our Dog-Friendly Recovery Approaches
Typical Policies for Bringing a Dog to Rehab
When it comes to animals it is important to be aware of the responsibilities that come with owning them and then even more so when talking about bringing animals into a setting where they will come into contact with other people and animals. Rehabs that allow you to bring your pet in with you will have policies in place to protect you and your pet but also others and their pets, and to protect the facilities as well. Some standard requirements for bringing your dog to rehab with you regarding your dog’s health, care and behavior are covered here.
Once you’ve narrowed your search down to facilities that will meet your recovery needs it’s then important to check for the pet-specific amenities and policies in place at those facilities to ensure they will work for you and your pet. Pet-friendly rehabs should have their own rules when it comes to having your pet with you that would be important to review. Also, be sure to review what amenities are offered for your pet as there are standard facilities that may just have your basic amenities or you may opt for something a little more luxurious with some extra bells and whistles.
Vaccination Records
Providing an up-to-date vaccination record will be something required by the facility as this will ensure the health and safety of your pet and other residents alike so making sure your pet is up-to-date will be important. Some may even require you to provide documentation regarding flea and tick prevention as well since these are things that could affect other humans and pets within the facility. Each facility will also more than likely have their own list of rules you must follow when bringing your pet which are important to be aware of for the safety and enjoyment of all who use the center.
Facilities and Amenities for Dogs at Rehab Centers
These facilities will also typically offer accommodations that are important for the well-being of your pet such as walking trails, pet-specific outdoor areas for play and bathroom breaks, and pet-specific indoor areas for relaxing or play. You may even find that some of these types of facilities offer more luxury services for your pet as well such as grooming, veterinary care, or even just standard pet care for your furry friend to ensure they have very well cared for while you focus on your recovery.
How to Choose the Right Rehab that Allows Dogs
It’s important to approach the decision on where to go to rehab with care and really consider all the factors especially when hoping to bring your dog with you. Pet-friendly rehabs offer an enhanced recovery experience where you get to bring your best furry friend on your journey of healing but let's not forget the main reason you are there: your treatment. Finding a treatment center that is able to meet your needs for care along with the needs of your dog may take some time and consideration but in the end worth it for the benefits you will receive.
Your Dog is Important, But YOU are the #1 priority here
There are many things to consider when choosing which rehab is the right rehab for you that also allow you to bring your dog. First and foremost it’s crucial that you ensure that the rehab program you choose meets your needs when it comes to your recovery. The rehab should have a program that has qualified staff and evidence-based treatments that match your specific recovery needs. It’s also important to consider your personal recovery goals to ensure that the facility will be the best fit in meeting those as well. Remember your primary goal of rehab is recovery. Pet accommodations, while still important, are secondary when it comes to considering the best program for you.
Rehab will require intense efforts and focus so it will be important that you be sure having your dog with you won’t distract from the main goal of recovery. Having your pet with you in rehab does have many benefits as previously discussed but if you aren’t careful it can also be easy to be distracted by your dog or allow the needs of your dog to interfere with the work that needs to be focused on for recovery. You may want to consider if any of the rehabs you are looking at have support in caring for you dog, such as staff who will take your dog on a walk or have a type of doggie daycare area you can leave them at, that way you have times where you are truly focused on your recovery.
Can You Go To Rehab With a Dog?
By allowing pets, particularly dogs, into the rehab environment these facilities create environments that are nurturing and fosters healing and personal growth. It’s a progressive approach that has truly enhanced the recovery experience over the past decade where humans can go to heal while being supported with love and compassion by their pets who provide so many incredible benefits that aid in this journey.
How Pet-Friendly Rehabs Can Improve Treatment Outcomes
Having your pet by your side as you go down the path of a recovery journey can drastically improve your treatment outcome. Including animals in therapy sessions has shown a reduction in stress and anxiety which in turn makes it more likely for individuals to want to participate in their recovery plans more actively. Having a pet-friendly facility also helps foster a sense of community between others in the same facility connecting with their pets which enhances support networks between those also going through the recovery process.
Having your dog by your side while going on the journey of recovery is truly the best way to go. They can provide unconditional love and companionship during a time where loneliness and anxiety can be persistent. Just being in their presence can help relieve stress, and increase the production of oxytocin and serotonin. The responsibility of owning a pet instills a sense of routine and purpose. The bond created with your dog services as a powerful reminder of the beauty and value in life which reinforces motivation to regain control and stay sober.
Get in Touch with a Rehab that Allows Dogs
Are you or a loved one seeking help for substance use? If so, does having your pet by your side while you navigate the journey of recovery sound like the way to go? If yes, please consider reaching out to some rehab centers that are pet-friendly to get more information. These centers are truly dedicated to creating environments where you feel supported in your healing journey by prioritizing the emotional bond that is between us and our furry family members. The options are out there for an amazing pet-friendly rehab center fit just for you and your recovery goals.
