For many people, not finding long-term care for their pets is one of the main reasons for not going to rehab. Delaying drug and alcohol addiction treatment because you can’t decide on long-term care for your pet is understandable, but that’s no excuse. Today, people in recovery have many options available for finding dog care while in rehab.
Planning for Addiction Treatment
You know you’re making the right decision from the moment you choose to seek treatment for addiction. However, heading to addiction treatment means you need to do some planning.
When it comes to pets, most treatment facilities don’t let people bring their pets. The truth is, having your pets around can be a distraction. Remember, the whole purpose of rehab is to focus on overcoming your addiction and getting healthier. Sometimes, to achieve this, you need to separate yourself from the people you love, including your furry friends.
How to Care for Your Dog While in Rehab
Without you in rehab, your dog might not even have an owner in the future. Drug and alcohol addictions can be extremely challenging to overcome, and overdoses are very real and incredibly fatal.
Luckily, for you and your dog, finding dog care while in rehab is easier than you think.
Boarding or Pet Sitter
Rest assured, you’re not the first person with this problem. Many treatment centers can provide a few recommendations for nearby boarding pet facilities. These specialize in caring for pets for more extended periods.
While these facilities can be on the expensive side, they’re an all-in-one solution for pets. Many facilities have on-house veterinarians that can cater to your dog’s needs. Boarding personnel are well-trained and can help your dog thrive while you get the treatment you need.
On the other hand, you can also try to find a pet sitting service. Some people hire live-in pet sitters that board their dogs while you’re gone. During this time, they’re responsible for walking, feeding, and caring for your furry companion. Pet sitters are usually a cheaper option when compared to boarding facilities.
Family and Friends Care
Think about it, do you have family and friends that love pets? If you can trust them with your recovery process plans, ask them about leaving your pet while you’re away. When you trust your dog to friends or family members, you’re more likely to be at ease. Not to mention, this is perhaps the most affordable option you have to care for your dog while in rehab.
Think about Foster Programs
Most people are surprised to find that many institutions offer foster programs for individuals in your situation. Check with local humane societies or no-kill animal shelters for fostering recommendations. Through these programs, your pet is most likely to be placed in a foster home while you seek treatment or stay at one of their facilities. Many of these programs also offer financial assistance for people looking for pet care while seeking treatment.
Treatment Options for Addicts with Pets
If you’re contemplating the idea of seeking treatment for addiction, don’t let your pets hold you back. While your furry friends can offer support and comfort, they can also derail you from seeking the help you need. However, it doesn’t have to be an excuse for not going to rehab. At Lighthouse Recovery Institute, we’re pet lovers ourselves and understand the importance of having your support system close.
Consider Outpatient Programs
There’s a common misconception that drug rehab centers require you to leave everything behind. While this might be true for intensive inpatient programs, it’s not the only option for treatment.
Our treatment center understands the importance of maintaining specific responsibilities like going to school, working, caring for family, and caring for your dog. So, to help those juggling treatments and everyday life, we offer outpatient programs and intensive outpatient programs.
An outpatient program means you can stay at home while receiving treatment for addiction. In this program setting, you’ visit our facility every other day to speak with your designated therapist, participate in group meetings, and other treatment activities. Outpatient programs are best for those who can’t place their lives on hold while seeking treatment for their addiction. It gives them the flexibility to start their path towards recovery and a way to begin practicing their coping skills to manage addiction in the real world.
However, outpatient programs are not ideal for those battling with severe addictions. In these cases, a complete inpatient treatment plan, paired with medical detox, is the best option. Checking into a rehab facility for long-term addiction treatment might be the only way to break the pattern and start working towards a sober lifestyle.
No More Excuses, Seek Treatment Today
It’s time to stop using your dog as an excuse to avoid drug and alcohol rehab. While you might not be able to bring them along for rehab, many options guarantee you both receive the help you need. At Lighthouse Recovery Institute, we know you might miss your furry friend through recovery, but it’s the best for both of you.
While we’re a pet-free drug rehab facility, we do have our very own emotional support dog, Zoey. She will greet you with the biggest smile, the warmest hug every time you visit, and sheer unconditional love. She might also try to bribe you for a belly rub, but that’s all part of her emotional support tactics.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, stop making excuses, and seek treatment. Our admission specialists and staff can help you find the right caring facilities for your dog. Speak with our therapist today to see if an outpatient treatment program might be the best option for your recovery.
Whatever the case, remember that you (and your dog) have plenty of options. Don’t let your pets get in the way of a sober, healthy, and long life. Call Lighthouse Recovery Institute today and take the first steps towards addiction recovery.
