For many of us, our pets are members of the family. They provide us with unconditional love and support, and they’re always there for us when we need them. But did you know that they can also be powerful allies in the fight in keeping some people sober? Studies have shown that owning a pet can reduce stress levels, promote social interactions, and provide a sense of purpose—all of which are crucial for maintaining sobriety.
In this blog post, we’ll explore how pets can help people maintain their sobriety. We’ll also dispel some common myths about pet ownership and addiction recovery. So if you’re thinking about getting a furry friend, read on!
MYTH: People in Recovery Shouldn’t Get Pets
FALSE! Pets can be very beneficial for people in recovery. Studies have shown that pet ownership can reduce stress levels, promote social interactions, and provide a sense of purpose—all of which are crucial for maintaining sobriety.
Pets provide us with unconditional love and support, and they’re always there for us when we need them. They give us a sense of responsibility and help to structure our day-to-day lives. And unlike human friends or family members, they won’t judge us if we slip up or have a bad day.
In addition, pets can also help people in recovery by giving them responsibilities and new sense of purpose. Caring for a pet can help to structure their day-to-day lives, and the routine of walking, feeding and playing with their pet can provide them with a much-needed sense of stability.
“Pets can help to reduce stress levels and promote positive social interactions. The simple act of stroking a cat or taking a dog for a walk can help to ease anxiety and promote relaxation. Pets can also help to encourage people in recovery to connect with others in the community, which is an important part of staying sober.” added rehabilitation gurus from Sydney Detox & Rehab.
So if you’re thinking about getting a pet, there’s no reason not to! Just be sure to do your research beforehand and choose an animal that is compatible with your lifestyle and personality.
MYTH: People in Recovery Should Avoid Dogs Because They’re Too Excitable
FALSE! While it’s true that some dogs have high energy levels, many breeds are perfect for people in recovery. For example, Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers are known for their calm demeanours and loving dispositions. Other breeds that make good companions for people in recovery include Basset Hounds, Bull Mastiffs, and Newfoundlands.
In cases where the dog is among the active breeds, there are still plenty of ways to keep up with them and maintain their activity levels. First, it is important to make sure that the dog has access to a safe and secure area to run and play. This means that the dog should have a fenced-in yard or a designated area at a park where they can run off-leash. You can also have your yard laid with synthetic turf to make sure that the play area for your dog will look nice all the time but still maintain its integrity. Second, it is important to provide the dog with regular exercise. This can be done by taking the dog for walks, runs, or hikes regularly. Finally, it is important to provide the dog with mentally stimulating activities. This can be done by teaching the dog new tricks, playing fetch or tug-of-war, or providing them with puzzle toys.
Of course, every dog is different, so it’s important to get to know an animal before you bring them home. If you’re considering adoption, ask the shelter staff about the dog’s personality and energy level. And be sure to take your new furry friend for a walk every day to help them burn off any excess energy!
MYTH: Cats Aren’t Good Pets for People in Addiction Recovery Because They’re Aloof
FALSE! While it’s true that some cats can be aloof, they can also make excellent companions for people in recovery. Cats provide us with emotional support and help to reduce stress levels—both of which are crucial for maintaining sobriety. In fact, one study found that people who owned cats were less likely to relapse than those who didn’t own any pets at all!
Cats may not provide the same affection as dogs but they have their unique ways of showing it. There’s a reason that cats are increasingly becoming popular on the internet and that’s because of their nature to be aloof and serene. As experts who work with cats, Ella and Friends Photography will tell you that they help to create a sense of tranquillity amid chaos, making it easier for people to work in peace. And since cats are known for their independent streak, they’re less likely to bother you apart from the occasional poking.
Cats also require less attention than dogs, which makes them ideal companions for busy people or those who live alone. And contrary to popular belief, cats can be trained to use a litter box—you just need to be patient and consistent with them!
Conclusion
Pets can be wonderful additions to the lives of people in addiction recovery. They provide us with emotional support and help reduce stress levels—both of which are crucial for maintaining sobriety. Cats require less attention than dogs, making them ideal companions for busy people or those who live alone. And contrary to popular belief, cats can be trained to use a litter box—you just need to be patient and consistent with them! So if you’re thinking about getting a pet, there’s no reason not to! Just be sure to do your research beforehand and choose an animal that is compatible with your lifestyle and personality.