Pet-Friendly Drug Rehab

Medically reviewed by

Isaac Alexis, M.D., AAMA, AMP-BC

February 15, 2019

Ridding yourself of the hold that drug addiction has on you by entering a rehabilitation facility can be emotionally exhausting. There are many blocks you may find in your road as you attempt to free yourself from this disease and start a fresh, sober life. One stumbling block that often keeps a patient from entering rehab is the notion that the common emotional supports within his life will have to be left at home. As rehabilitation centers expand in their programs and offerings, lending to the needs of very different individuals, this concern is being addressed more frequently.

While it wouldn’t be advisable to bring family members or significant others to rehab—as you should have a sole devotion to your recovery without their common presence within your program—emotional support can be found in your other loved ones: your pets.

In many contexts, humans have had deep connections with animals in ways that lessen the word ‘pet’ and make these domesticated creatures much more like family members. In society today we see those pet owners would prefer that their furry loved ones be given the best of care in kennels and daycares. This bond that extends between human and pet is oftentimes forgotten during high-stress conflicts and drug-related problems. But these problems are the ones that often lead a human to seek out the reassurance and comfort of other humans, when a pet may have been an even better choice in terms of listening and providing unconditional affection.

Pet Therapy

So maybe you’re a cat-lover and you’d rather spend your days getting love and affection from a purring feline. A man’s best friend can be whom he chooses and often the emotional connection we create with our pets is not exactly of our choosing but works as a support, nonetheless. Animal therapy has taken off as its own sub-genre of psychological techniques that provides a basic, non-threatening system of advocacy and confidence.

Those who find themselves connected to their pets will also find that in seeking a sober life in rehab, they will experience moments during which their pet’s silent love will give them a boost that they need to continue on in recovery. They will know that support exists in many forms and that truly safe companionship in a difficult time can be had.

Therapy within rehab, with your beloved pet, also comes in many forms. If you have the attachment to your pet that you feel could help you through this incredibly difficult time, you will come to find that a pet-friendly program will fit your needs in many ways.

Familiar Faces

Instead of going into a long-term program and feeling completely disconnected from the good parts of your former life, having your pet accompany you, even for just some parts of your program, can help you feel for comfortable in rehab. Many times, those around you who experienced the hardships brought on by your addiction may be those who need their own time of healing. Your pet can help you without making anything more difficult or stressful within the process.

Being Taken Care Of

While you have given your pet a family, a home, and the love he needs, it is now your turn. The duration of your rehabilitation program will have its ups and downs. You may feel the need to take some time for yourself, and in these moments, you may find that having your pet with you makes it feel as though you have someone there to watch over you during down times. Pets often take the emotional lead in their own way, insisting on being there for you, knowing in some way that you need them beside you. Science has shown that many animals do sense stress and negative emotion, so in these moments, when pets seem to show us they care, there is enough to support the idea that they really do.

Strength, Courage, And Optimism

More than anything, having your pet with you during drug rehab can give you the push that you need to continue to get better. Many dogs, energetic as they can be, show the spirit that is necessary throughout your journey to sobriety. The exercise they can participate in and that laughs that they so often provide may brighten your days in rehab and bring to your mind the idea that you really can do this; you really can succeed and someone truly cares to see you do it!

Pet-Assisted Drug Rehab

Some rehabilitation facilities allow for your pets to stay with you in your room throughout your entire stay. It is important before you check into your pet-assisted rehabilitation to know that not all drug rehabs allow pets to stay long-term, nor do all allow pets to participate in every aspect of a drug treatment program. Here are some ways in which your pet may be able to help you through rehab:

• Scheduled visits
• Therapy pets and group visits
• Stay while cared for by animal handler
• Long-term, in-room stay
• Exercise with pets
• Pet walks and relaxation
• Socialization
• Emotional help through detoxification process

Finding a Pet-Friendly Drug Rehab

Getting into a rehabilitation facility that offers the unique bonus of being pet-friendly can be a bit difficult. If this type of treatment is something you are interested in, you may want to travel with your buddy and check in to a facility in another state. This can also make your rehabilitation process more unique and provide a fresh slate on which to build your new life. Contact RehabCenter.net today for more information on finding the perfect pet-friendly program for you.