For many people, their pet dog or cat provides emotional support and unconditional love during the most challenging times, particularly while recovering from addiction. Several rehabilitation facilities across the United States recognize the benefits of this powerful bond and welcome clients’ animal companions as part of their treatment approach.
The connection between humans and their pets can be important in a recovery setting. Research shows that having a beloved animal can reduce stress hormones, increase feel-good chemicals such as oxytocin, and provide a sense of normalcy that helps people adjust to an addiction treatment environment. This bond facilitated comfort that can make the stressful work of recovery more manageable. The best pet-friendly rehab centers understand the importance of this relationship and will offer specialized accommodations for pets while providing quality addiction care.
List Of the Top Pet-Friendly Addiction Treatment Centers In The U.S.
Our team has selected pet-friendly drug and alcohol rehab facilities in the United States based on accreditation status, client testimonials, Google ratings, level of care, quality of amenities, and other features.
Capistrano Beach, California
#1 Capo By The Sea
Capo by the Sea offers a unique rehab program where clients can bring their animal companions during treatment. This facility in Orange County, California, knows that pets provide unconditional acceptance and emotional stability during the early phases of recovery. The residential program specializes in dual diagnosis treatment, behavioral therapy, and holistic therapies. There are also specialized programs for working professionals, couples, and people who want to pursue a secular non-12-step treatment model.
Some luxury amenities available here include spa services, gourmet dining options, massage therapy, golf courses, acupuncture services, mindfulness meditation, sound healing, and yoga classes.
Show MoreCapo by the Sea offers a unique rehab program where clients can bring their animal companions during treatment. This facility in Orange County, California, knows that pets provide unconditional acceptance and emotional stability during the early phases of recovery. The residential program specializes in dual diagnosis treatment, behavioral therapy, and holistic therapies. There are also specialized programs for working professionals, couples, and people who want to pursue a secular non-12-step treatment model.
Some luxury amenities available here include spa services, gourmet dining options, massage therapy, golf courses, acupuncture services, mindfulness meditation, sound healing, and yoga classes.
Kitty Hawk, North Carolina
#2 Changing Tides
Changing Tides offers a unique oceanfront recovery experience a mere 30 feet from Kitty Hawk Beach, with private beach access for clients. This CARF-accredited facility provides multiple levels of care, including day treatment, intensive outpatient programs, and long-term residential options. The facility features a large seasonal pool with deck, a basketball hoop, two washers and dryers, on-site clinical services, and accommodations where clients relax with TV, WiFi, and other comfortable amenities.
As a pet-friendly rehabilitation center, Changing Tides allows certain pets for an additional fee, with owners assuming responsibility for their care. The therapeutic approach combines individual therapy, group counseling, and family counseling.
Show MoreChanging Tides offers a unique oceanfront recovery experience a mere 30 feet from Kitty Hawk Beach, with private beach access for clients. This CARF-accredited facility provides multiple levels of care, including day treatment, intensive outpatient programs, and long-term residential options. The facility features a large seasonal pool with deck, a basketball hoop, two washers and dryers, on-site clinical services, and accommodations where clients relax with TV, WiFi, and other comfortable amenities.
As a pet-friendly rehabilitation center, Changing Tides allows certain pets for an additional fee, with owners assuming responsibility for their care. The therapeutic approach combines individual therapy, group counseling, and family counseling.
Las Vegas, Las Vegas
#3 Desert Winds Recovery Center
Desert Winds Recovery Center is a rehab center in Las Vegas, NV, that offers pet-friendly addiction treatment in a facility that specializes in serving veterans, active duty service members, and military personnel. Their trauma-focused program addresses substance use disorders alongside post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), military sexual trauma, and co-occurring mental health conditions through evidence-based therapies including CBT and trauma-informed therapy. Holistic therapies at Desert Winds include meditation, yoga, music therapy, and art therapy.
Multiple levels of care are available at Desert Winds, including detoxification, residential treatment, PHP, IOP, and sober living. The program is designed to help clients develop coping skills, reduce stress and anxiety, and build the foundation for lasting recovery with their emotional support dog alongside them.
Show MoreDesert Winds Recovery Center is a rehab center in Las Vegas, NV, that offers pet-friendly addiction treatment in a facility that specializes in serving veterans, active duty service members, and military personnel. Their trauma-focused program addresses substance use disorders alongside post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), military sexual trauma, and co-occurring mental health conditions through evidence-based therapies including CBT and trauma-informed therapy. Holistic therapies at Desert Winds include meditation, yoga, music therapy, and art therapy.
Multiple levels of care are available at Desert Winds, including detoxification, residential treatment, PHP, IOP, and sober living. The program is designed to help clients develop coping skills, reduce stress and anxiety, and build the foundation for lasting recovery with their emotional support dog alongside them.
Donegal, Pennsylvania
#4 DreamLife Recovery
DreamLife Recovery offers pet-friendly addiction care in a peaceful setting in western Pennsylvania near Pittsburgh. The residential facility offers a continuum of care that includes medical detox, inpatient rehabilitation, and specialized programs for alcohol, opioid, heroin, and prescription drug dependencies. Dreamlife allows clients to bring their pets during treatment, recognizing that animals provide comfort and happiness.
An array of amenities are available here including private rooms with bathrooms, an in-house gym, biofeedback therapy, hydrotherapy, sound therapy, and yoga. The evidence-based clinical program incorporates EMDR, CBT, DBT, brainspotting, medication-assisted treatment, group therapy, and adventure therapy. There are also specialized programs available for first responders and LGBTQ+ people.
Show MoreDreamLife Recovery offers pet-friendly addiction care in a peaceful setting in western Pennsylvania near Pittsburgh. The residential facility offers a continuum of care that includes medical detox, inpatient rehabilitation, and specialized programs for alcohol, opioid, heroin, and prescription drug dependencies. Dreamlife allows clients to bring their pets during treatment, recognizing that animals provide comfort and happiness.
An array of amenities are available here including private rooms with bathrooms, an in-house gym, biofeedback therapy, hydrotherapy, sound therapy, and yoga. The evidence-based clinical program incorporates EMDR, CBT, DBT, brainspotting, medication-assisted treatment, group therapy, and adventure therapy. There are also specialized programs available for first responders and LGBTQ+ people.
Burns, Tennessee
#5 Freeman Recovery Center
Freeman Recovery Center operates multiple pet-friendly rehabilitation facilities across Tennessee near Nashville, specializing in pet-friendly and animal-assisted therapy programs that enhance the treatment experience. Treatment options at Freeman include programs for substance abuse, mental health conditions, and dual diagnosis treatment. The residential program provides flexible lengths of stay from 30-day to 24-month options for people requiring more intensive care.
Freeman Recovery Center also offers specialized programs, including gender-specific services, faith-based options, private luxury inpatient care, rehab programs for couples, and programs for specific populations such as LGBTQIA+ people, teens, and elderly clients.
Show MoreFreeman Recovery Center operates multiple pet-friendly rehabilitation facilities across Tennessee near Nashville, specializing in pet-friendly and animal-assisted therapy programs that enhance the treatment experience. Treatment options at Freeman include programs for substance abuse, mental health conditions, and dual diagnosis treatment. The residential program provides flexible lengths of stay from 30-day to 24-month options for people requiring more intensive care.
Freeman Recovery Center also offers specialized programs, including gender-specific services, faith-based options, private luxury inpatient care, rehab programs for couples, and programs for specific populations such as LGBTQIA+ people, teens, and elderly clients.
Long Beach, California
#6 Gratitude Lodge
Gratitude Lodge is an upscale, pet-friendly rehabilitation facility in Long Beach, CA. Their pet policy welcomes companions up to 60 pounds and includes assistance with out-of-state travel arrangements. Gratitude recognizes the benefits pets provide during recovery, including mental well-being, natural endorphin production, and companionship. The facility provides detox programs, residential programs, PHP, and outpatient services.
Set in beautiful walkable neighborhoods near the beach, the facility features clean, upscale accommodations with 24/7 staff, many of whom are in recovery themselves. Treatment includes evidence-based services such as MAT, CBT, DBT, and holistic therapies such as Reiki, yoga, and meditation. Gratitude Lodge also offers aftercare planning and an active alumni community.
Show MoreGratitude Lodge is an upscale, pet-friendly rehabilitation facility in Long Beach, CA. Their pet policy welcomes companions up to 60 pounds and includes assistance with out-of-state travel arrangements. Gratitude recognizes the benefits pets provide during recovery, including mental well-being, natural endorphin production, and companionship. The facility provides detox programs, residential programs, PHP, and outpatient services.
Set in beautiful walkable neighborhoods near the beach, the facility features clean, upscale accommodations with 24/7 staff, many of whom are in recovery themselves. Treatment includes evidence-based services such as MAT, CBT, DBT, and holistic therapies such as Reiki, yoga, and meditation. Gratitude Lodge also offers aftercare planning and an active alumni community.
Brentwood, Tennessee
#7 Recovery Unplugged
Recovery Unplugged offers a unique pet-friendly rehabilitation program, where innovative music-assisted treatment serves as the foundation of recovery. This approach combines music with clinical expertise to help clients build trust, process trauma, and be more open to fully embracing treatment. The facility welcomes furry companions, recognizing the value dogs and cats bring to the recovery process.
The facility features comfortable semi-private rooms, gourmet meals that accommodate various dietary preferences, and music spaces where clients can write music, poetry, and enjoy live performances from other artists in recovery. Additional amenities include a gym, recreational facility, fire pit, and game room. The centralized location is in proximity to numerous sober activities, including the Country Music Hall of Fame, Tennessee State Parks, and the historic Grand Ole Opry.
Show MoreRecovery Unplugged offers a unique pet-friendly rehabilitation program, where innovative music-assisted treatment serves as the foundation of recovery. This approach combines music with clinical expertise to help clients build trust, process trauma, and be more open to fully embracing treatment. The facility welcomes furry companions, recognizing the value dogs and cats bring to the recovery process.
The facility features comfortable semi-private rooms, gourmet meals that accommodate various dietary preferences, and music spaces where clients can write music, poetry, and enjoy live performances from other artists in recovery. Additional amenities include a gym, recreational facility, fire pit, and game room. The centralized location is in proximity to numerous sober activities, including the Country Music Hall of Fame, Tennessee State Parks, and the historic Grand Ole Opry.
Scottsdale, Arizona
#8 Scottsdale Recovery,
Scottsdale Recovery Center is a top-tier addiction recovery center in Scottsdale, AZ. The beautiful residential facility rejects a one-size-fits-all model, instead providing treatment that combines evidence-based and holistic practices for substance abuse and dual diagnosis conditions. The facility’s behavioral health program includes group sessions totaling 5.5 hours per week, weekly individual therapy, and specialized services such as guided meditation, EMDR therapy, an executive’s program, and equine therapy.
Not only can clients bring their furry friend with them to this luxury facility, they can enjoy a range of amenities such as hot tubs, private room options, flat-screen TVs, and daily gym access. The focus on relapse prevention incorporates SAMHSA’s Eight Dimensions of Wellness to improve mental, physical, and spiritual health, with expertise in helping young adults in their 20s, 30s, and 40s get on track to long-term sobriety.
Show MoreScottsdale Recovery Center is a top-tier addiction recovery center in Scottsdale, AZ. The beautiful residential facility rejects a one-size-fits-all model, instead providing treatment that combines evidence-based and holistic practices for substance abuse and dual diagnosis conditions. The facility’s behavioral health program includes group sessions totaling 5.5 hours per week, weekly individual therapy, and specialized services such as guided meditation, EMDR therapy, an executive’s program, and equine therapy.
Not only can clients bring their furry friend with them to this luxury facility, they can enjoy a range of amenities such as hot tubs, private room options, flat-screen TVs, and daily gym access. The focus on relapse prevention incorporates SAMHSA’s Eight Dimensions of Wellness to improve mental, physical, and spiritual health, with expertise in helping young adults in their 20s, 30s, and 40s get on track to long-term sobriety.
Spring Hill, Florida
#9 Spring Gardens Recovery
Spring Gardens Recovery is a luxury, pet-friendly rehabilitation center in Spring Hill, FL. The holistic approach employed at Spring Gardens addresses a range of issues, such as psychological, spiritual, social, and nutritional guidance. Both evidence-based western medicine and eastern philosophies are integrated here, with treatments encompassing meditation therapy, acupressure, yoga, Reiki, sound healing, cupping, massage, and reflexology.
Residential facilities feature spacious accommodations with personal Bluetooth headsets and flat-screen TVs, on-site professional chefs preparing nutritious meals, patio areas for gathering, lounges, and beautiful grounds. Spring Gardens provides medical detox, inpatient programs, gender-specific detox options, and experiential therapies such as equine therapy, art therapy, wilderness therapy, and music therapy. The focus on treating the whole person is evidenced in weekly group activities and assistance in developing healthy hobbies.
Show MoreSpring Gardens Recovery is a luxury, pet-friendly rehabilitation center in Spring Hill, FL. The holistic approach employed at Spring Gardens addresses a range of issues, such as psychological, spiritual, social, and nutritional guidance. Both evidence-based western medicine and eastern philosophies are integrated here, with treatments encompassing meditation therapy, acupressure, yoga, Reiki, sound healing, cupping, massage, and reflexology.
Residential facilities feature spacious accommodations with personal Bluetooth headsets and flat-screen TVs, on-site professional chefs preparing nutritious meals, patio areas for gathering, lounges, and beautiful grounds. Spring Gardens provides medical detox, inpatient programs, gender-specific detox options, and experiential therapies such as equine therapy, art therapy, wilderness therapy, and music therapy. The focus on treating the whole person is evidenced in weekly group activities and assistance in developing healthy hobbies.
Huntington Beac, California
#10 Sober Partners
Sober Partners offers a pet-friendly experience in their Huntington Beach facility, where clients can bring their furry companions to stay throughout the entire recovery journey. Acknowledging that addiction affects the entire family, their approach ensures clients don’t have to worry about pet care during treatment. The modern Orange County facility provides comfortable private and semi-private rooms with all the amenities of home, including chef-prepared meals in a coastal setting, an hour from Los Angeles and San Diego.
The facility provides treatment options that include detox, inpatient programs, outpatient services, and specialized tracks for executives, men’s empowerment, and one-on-one counseling. Sober Partners utilizes the therapeutic power of animals so clients can have companionship that reduces anxiety and depression, suppresses drug cravings, and promotes brain chemistry changes.
Show MoreSober Partners offers a pet-friendly experience in their Huntington Beach facility, where clients can bring their furry companions to stay throughout the entire recovery journey. Acknowledging that addiction affects the entire family, their approach ensures clients don’t have to worry about pet care during treatment. The modern Orange County facility provides comfortable private and semi-private rooms with all the amenities of home, including chef-prepared meals in a coastal setting, an hour from Los Angeles and San Diego.
The facility provides treatment options that include detox, inpatient programs, outpatient services, and specialized tracks for executives, men’s empowerment, and one-on-one counseling. Sober Partners utilizes the therapeutic power of animals so clients can have companionship that reduces anxiety and depression, suppresses drug cravings, and promotes brain chemistry changes.
Mission Viejo, California
#11 Southern California Sunrise Recovery Center
This pet-friendly mental health and addiction treatment center in Mission Viejo, CA, combines psychotherapy with evidence-based behavioral therapies to address substance use and co-occurring mental health issues. Each client at Southern California Sunrise will undergo a thorough psychological evaluation to ensure an accurate diagnosis, followed by a treatment plan that may include CBT, DBT, EMDR, reality therapy, narrative therapy, and more.
Treatment programs effectively address a spectrum of mental health challenges, including bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, PTSD, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), personality disorders, and schizophrenia. The medical team includes licensed therapists, psychologists, and other specialists who can adapt to each client’s specific diagnosis.
Show MoreThis pet-friendly mental health and addiction treatment center in Mission Viejo, CA, combines psychotherapy with evidence-based behavioral therapies to address substance use and co-occurring mental health issues. Each client at Southern California Sunrise will undergo a thorough psychological evaluation to ensure an accurate diagnosis, followed by a treatment plan that may include CBT, DBT, EMDR, reality therapy, narrative therapy, and more.
Treatment programs effectively address a spectrum of mental health challenges, including bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, PTSD, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), personality disorders, and schizophrenia. The medical team includes licensed therapists, psychologists, and other specialists who can adapt to each client’s specific diagnosis.
Cummington, Massachusetts
#12 Swift River
Swift River in Cummington, MA, is a drug and alcohol rehabilitation program that welcomes emotional support animals as part of a holistic treatment approach. The inpatient facility provides a structured environment free from daily stressors, with specialized programs for substance use disorders and mental health conditions such as depression and borderline personality disorder. Some of the effective services available here include individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, CBT, DBT, and more.
Swift River places special emphasis on serving veterans, offering customized care to treat PTSD and emotional expression difficulties. Amenities at this facility include an on-site wellness center, gender-specific groups, a licensed dietician, weekly family therapy sessions, and aftercare support.
Show MoreSwift River in Cummington, MA, is a drug and alcohol rehabilitation program that welcomes emotional support animals as part of a holistic treatment approach. The inpatient facility provides a structured environment free from daily stressors, with specialized programs for substance use disorders and mental health conditions such as depression and borderline personality disorder. Some of the effective services available here include individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, CBT, DBT, and more.
Swift River places special emphasis on serving veterans, offering customized care to treat PTSD and emotional expression difficulties. Amenities at this facility include an on-site wellness center, gender-specific groups, a licensed dietician, weekly family therapy sessions, and aftercare support.
Houston, Texas
#13 Taylor Recovery Center
Taylor Recovery Center is a pet-friendly drug and alcohol treatment center in Houston, TX, offering a comforting environment with plenty of space for pets to roam freely within the facility. The Joint Commission-accredited program blends holistic and science-based services, with a team of therapists who are established members of the Houston recovery community.
The range of services includes medically assisted detox, residential treatment, PHP, IOP, and sober living options with amenities such as permission to use cell phones and laptops, a yoga studio, fitness centre, private rooms with TV and bathrooms, FMLA assistance, transportation to and from treatment, and flexible visitation policies. The pet-friendly policy ensures clients never feel alone during their recovery.
Show MoreTaylor Recovery Center is a pet-friendly drug and alcohol treatment center in Houston, TX, offering a comforting environment with plenty of space for pets to roam freely within the facility. The Joint Commission-accredited program blends holistic and science-based services, with a team of therapists who are established members of the Houston recovery community.
The range of services includes medically assisted detox, residential treatment, PHP, IOP, and sober living options with amenities such as permission to use cell phones and laptops, a yoga studio, fitness centre, private rooms with TV and bathrooms, FMLA assistance, transportation to and from treatment, and flexible visitation policies. The pet-friendly policy ensures clients never feel alone during their recovery.
Redlands, California
#14 Wildwood Canyon
Wildwood Canyon, operated by Benchmark Transitions, is a unique pet-friendly rehab center set on a 52-acre working ranch in the Oak Glen area of Yucaipa, CA. The luxurious 7,000-square-foot main ranch house features horse stables, equine arenas, cattle grazing pastures, a garden, a fruit orchard, and much more. Levels of care at Wildwood include residential, PHP, IOP, and transitional living options.
An array of holistic therapies is available here that include nature-based activities, yoga, art and music therapy, fitness programs, hiking, and equine therapy. The pet-friendly amenities include comfortable accommodations, spacious outdoor areas for pets to exercise, and guidelines that ensure a safe environment for residents and their animal companions. Nutritional support with on-site meals, recreational areas, relaxation spots, and pool access in select homes enhances the recovery experience.
Show MoreWildwood Canyon, operated by Benchmark Transitions, is a unique pet-friendly rehab center set on a 52-acre working ranch in the Oak Glen area of Yucaipa, CA. The luxurious 7,000-square-foot main ranch house features horse stables, equine arenas, cattle grazing pastures, a garden, a fruit orchard, and much more. Levels of care at Wildwood include residential, PHP, IOP, and transitional living options.
An array of holistic therapies is available here that include nature-based activities, yoga, art and music therapy, fitness programs, hiking, and equine therapy. The pet-friendly amenities include comfortable accommodations, spacious outdoor areas for pets to exercise, and guidelines that ensure a safe environment for residents and their animal companions. Nutritional support with on-site meals, recreational areas, relaxation spots, and pool access in select homes enhances the recovery experience.
Canyon Lake, Texas
#15 Windmill Wellness
Windmill Wellness Ranch is an addiction treatment facility on a historic 75-acre ranch in the Austin Texas Hill Country, north of Canyon Lake. The dual diagnosis treatment center focuses on treating people with scientifically validated services such as brain frequency technology, which uses EEG brain mapping to create treatment plans that address brain imbalances. This spacious facility features basketball, volleyball, and tennis courts, an outdoor pool, and extensive trails for hiking.
The residential program includes 30 hours of weekly programming that covers addiction biology, interpersonal skills, relapse prevention, and more. Clients will receive three individual counseling sessions weekly with master’s-level licensed therapists, utilizing approaches such as EMDR, CBT, internal family systems, and sound healing. Other innovative services include BioWatch biometric monitoring and 9D breathwork.
Show MoreWindmill Wellness Ranch is an addiction treatment facility on a historic 75-acre ranch in the Austin Texas Hill Country, north of Canyon Lake. The dual diagnosis treatment center focuses on treating people with scientifically validated services such as brain frequency technology, which uses EEG brain mapping to create treatment plans that address brain imbalances. This spacious facility features basketball, volleyball, and tennis courts, an outdoor pool, and extensive trails for hiking.
The residential program includes 30 hours of weekly programming that covers addiction biology, interpersonal skills, relapse prevention, and more. Clients will receive three individual counseling sessions weekly with master’s-level licensed therapists, utilizing approaches such as EMDR, CBT, internal family systems, and sound healing. Other innovative services include BioWatch biometric monitoring and 9D breathwork.
Finding And Accessing A Pet-Friendly Rehab Center In The U.S.
Finding a pet-friendly rehab center requires a lot of research and planning. The majority of pet-friendly facilities are concentrated in California, Texas, and Florida, though options are available in other states throughout the country. Begin your search by contacting rehab centers to inquire about their pet policies. Many facilities require vaccination records, behavior assessments, and additional fees for pets.
It’s important to verify health insurance first, as most plans will not cover pet-related amenities. The facility’s admissions team will help you determine out-of-pocket costs and payment options. For people without local pet-friendly options, consider traveling to a state with more choices. Your primary care provider or the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) can provide a referral to a facility that meets your needs.
Requirements For Bringing Pets To A Drug Rehab Program
Certain guidelines must be followed at pet-friendly rehab centers to ensure a positive experience for all clients and staff. Below are some of the most common requirements that people and their pets must meet to attend a pet-friendly program.
Requirements may include:
- pets must be up-to-date on all vaccinations
- animals must be well-behaved and not pose a threat to other clients or staff
- owners are responsible for all pet care, including feeding, exercise, and waste clean up
- most facilities require pets to be spayed or neutered
- some facilities may have weight restrictions, particularly for dogs
- pet owners must bring all necessary supplies, including food, bedding, toys, and medications
- facilities typically require a pet interview or trial period to assess behavior
- some centers may charge additional fees for pet accommodation
- owners must sign liability waivers related to their pets’ behavior
If you wish to bring your pet with you to an addiction recovery center, contact the facility of your choice and learn more about their requirements.
Benefits Of Attending A Pet-Friendly Addiction Treatment Program
Allowing pets into an addiction treatment program offers many benefits. Understanding these benefits can help people make an informed decision about seeking pet-inclusive care.
Pets Reduce Negative Emotions
Addiction recovery often involves confronting emotions such as anxiety, depression, and isolation. A pet provides comfort during these moments by offering unconditional acceptance. Studies show that interacting with pets can lower feelings of loneliness and create a sense of being needed.
Pets Produce Feel-Good Chemicals
Physical interaction with pets triggers the release of beneficial neurochemicals in the brain. When people pet, play with, or simply sit near their animals, the body produces oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine. This natural source of positive sensations helps reduce cravings for drugs or alcohol.
Pets Help People In Recovery Relax
Recovery is intense and emotionally draining. Pets offer breaks from therapy by providing moments of playfulness and joy. Petting an animal has been shown to lower blood pressure and reduce cortisol levels.
Pets Promote Accountability
Caring for an animal creates structure and responsibility. The daily routines of feeding, walking, and tending to a pet’s needs provide a way for people to be consistent and committed to another living being.
Pets Help Build Trust
Many people entering a rehab program have relationship trauma and may have issues surrounding trust. The non-judgmental nature of the human-animal bond creates a space to rebuild lost trust, helping clients open up to therapists and peers.
Pets Provide Distraction
Pets offer healthy diversions that interrupt cravings or emotional distress. The demands of a pet can pull focus from withdrawal symptoms and other uncomfortable sensations. This redirection teaches clients coping skills they can apply in the months and years ahead.
Pets Encourage Healthy Habits
Physical activity is important for recovery, and pet care incorporates movement into daily routines. Dog walks, play sessions, and even basic pet maintenance increase physical activity levels, which improves sleep and reduces anxiety.
Pets Help Reduce Stress
The transition from treatment back to everyday life is a vulnerable period for people trying to stay sober. Pets offer consistency during this fragile stage, serving as a source of comfort. Feeling stable reduces the stress of the transition and helps people maintain sobriety.
FAQs About Top Pet-Friendly Drug And Alcohol Rehab Centers In The U.S.
The frequently asked questions below may help you or your loved ones narrow your search for a pet-friendly rehab facility.
What Do I Do With My Pet If I Can’t Bring It To Treatment?
If you’re unable to bring your pet to treatment, many options exist to ensure their care during your absence. Consider asking trusted family members or close friends to foster your pet temporarily. Pet sitters may offer in-home care and maintain your pet’s routine while sending you regular updates. Boarding kennels, veterinary hospitals, and other long-term boarding facilities will provide the structured care your pet needs.
Do Pet-Friendly Addiction Treatment Centers Accept Medicaid Insurance?
Most pet-friendly facilities throughout the United States will accept private health insurance, but many will not accept government-run insurance plans such as Medicaid to pay for care. Contact the rehab center of your choice to learn more about the types of health insurance plans they accept. Learn more about pet-friendly rehab insurance coverage.
How Much Do Private Pet-Friendly Treatment Centers Cost?
Pet-friendly rehabilitation centers typically cost anywhere from several thousand dollars per month for inpatient programs, with additional fees ranging from $500 to $2,0000, depending on the facility and length of stay. Insurance usually covers the treatment component, but pet-friendly features are usually considered amenities and require out-of-pocket payment.
What’s The Difference Between Pet-Friendly And Animal-Assisted Addiction Treatment?
Pet-friendly rehab facilities allow clients to bring their animals for emotional support during treatment. Animal-assisted therapy incorporates specially trained therapy animals into treatment sessions under professional guidance. Both approaches address a human-animal connection, but pet-friendly programs focus on preserving important relationships, while animal-assisted therapy uses animals as clinical tools.
What Kinds Of Animals Are Allowed In A Pet-Friendly Rehab Center?
Most pet-friendly rehab centers accommodate dogs and cats. Small caged pets like hamsters, guinea pigs, and birds may be permitted with certain restrictions. Facilities with more extensive grounds may allow larger animals on a case-by-case basis. Each facility will have its own policy regarding species, size, and quantity of pets allowed.
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For more helpful resources on addiction recovery, reach out to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) or browse our directory.
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Addiction Resource aims to provide only the most current, accurate information in regards to addiction and addiction treatment, which means we only reference the most credible sources available.
These include peer-reviewed journals, government entities and academic institutions, and leaders in addiction healthcare and advocacy. Learn more about how we safeguard our content by viewing our editorial policy.
- National Institutes of Health (NIH) — Exploring dog ownership in the lives of people with substance use disorder: a qualitative study
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10523709/ - National Institutes of Health (NIH) — The Power of Pets
https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2018/02/power-pets - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) — find treatment
https://findtreatment.gov/ - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) — Screening and Treatment of Co-Occurring Disorders
https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/serious-mental-illness/co-occurring-disorders - UC Davis Health — Health benefits of pets: How your furry friend improves your mental and physical health
https://health.ucdavis.edu/blog/cultivating-health/health-benefits-of-pets-how-your-furry-friend-improves-your-mental-and-physical-health/2024/04