New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
“It is no question of how challenging recovery can be for individuals. There are many different steps to maintain recovery. Some different approaches can also benefit certain people and also benefit the community.
Animals have a great impact on humans’ lives. Animal-assisted therapy or even being around animals has been used to help those in recovery. This type of therapy can be used to treat mental health conditions, and substance use disorder. Interaction with animals also has many health benefits.
Different studies have proven that owning a pet can change the body’s response to stress, help lower cholesterol, and increase physical activity. For those who are building their recovery support system, animals show unconditional love. Animals never criticize or judge you, and show unconditional acceptance. This love and affection for someone in recovery can really help one’s self-esteem.
Having pets around can control the feeling of loneliness. Sometimes, being in recovery means you may have lost some old relationships or friendships that can’t be returned. Animals provide companionship and love to humans in their own special way. Co-dependency can be a problem for those in recovery. Animals can provide the companionship in a way that doesn’t put anyone at risk for forming an unhealthy relationship.
It would be something for someone in recovery to say they have a sponsor, CSP worker, case manager…etc. and a dog to help them along their journey. Not only could an animal affect our lives but we can also affect theirs.
Approximately 7.6 million animals each year end up being surrendered to an animal shelter. Even if it is impossible for you to rescue a pet, many shelters thrive off the help of their volunteers.
Next time your sponsor is too busy to meet with you, or you missed the last NA meeting, think about brightening a homeless dog or cat’s life!
Local shelters accepting volunteers;
(most shelters accept online volunteer application)
Lighthouse Animal Shelter (508-999-7397)
596 Hathaway Road. New Bedford, MA.
Humane Society & Shelter (508-995-6661)
31 Ventura Drive. Dartmouth, MA.
Forever Paws (508-677-9154)
300 Lynwood Street. Fall River, MA.
