How a Rescue Animal can Rescue You

Rescue Dogs and Recovery

Pet therapy is a trending topic these days.
What started out as emotional support dogs has grown to encompass 
a whole array of animals. 
For the strangest support animals you can think of check out this article by Mariel Loveland
"10 Weirdest Emotional Support Animals that People have Actually Owned"
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But do support animals really help?

The research is in and the answer is overwhelmingly, YES! 
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3 WAYS MY RESCUE RESCUED ME

When you are starting out in early recovery, it is very important that you implement structure and responsibility. You know what gives you both of those things?
​An animal.
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1. Structure and Responsibility

A support dog is the perfect solution for someone that is working to create a healthy routine. 
A dog, unlike some more independent animals, needs you to take them out in the morning, pick up after them, go for walks, and feed them on a schedule. 
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Their natural need for all of those things will force you to get up and be productive. 
If you love them, you will do what is best by providing the necessary structure you both need. 
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A job is something else that provides both structure and responsibility. 
For this reason, if your work schedule is kind of chaotic, one of the more independent animal options may be a better fit for you. 
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For example, cats don't require that you to take them out in the morning. 
You are also able to set out food and water for days at a time. Should 
your job require a few days of travel, they would be just fine. However, they are still reliant on you for cleaning their litter box and ensuring their needs are met. 
For those reasons they provide the additional responsibility that can aid in your recovery.
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2. Companionship

Early addiction recovery can sometimes feel lonely.
You may have cut ties with old using friends (hopefully) and perhaps have not found your new group of sober friends, yet.
While it is extremely important to build a sober support network of the human species -
the animal world can provide that extra companionship when you are at home alone.
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Holding your dog or even just having an animal in the house can help you to feel comforted and alleviate feelings of loneliness. 

​3. Mental and Physical Health Benefits

A dog walk a day keeps the doctor away!
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​Addiction is a brain disease. 
Pet therapy is the medicine!
While at times owning a pet can add additional stress and financial strain, if it is the right time for you then there are so many health benefits to be attained. 
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Research shows that petting an animal invokes an automatic relaxation response, which 
leads to a reduction in anxiety and depression. 

Walking a dog is good for both you and the dog!
It gives you the extra motivation to get out there and care for your puppy. 
At the same time you are reaping the benefits of getting your steps in, too. 
Taking your dog for a short 10 minute walk 3-5 days a week will improve your mood and help to lower your blood pressure. 
Even on rainy days, or particularly cold ones, you can play fetch in the house or get creative with how you exercise with your dog. 
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Overall, ensure that you are able to responsibly provide
for your furry friend and then just have fun!
All they really need is their basic needs met and 
an abundance of love and affection!

In return, you will gain the the confidence in knowing that someone relies on you,
the comfort of never being alone, 
and the free dopamine that comes from loving your fur baby!
What  could be better than that?!

Until Next Time, 
Your Praying Friend
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