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Pets and sober living homes

Written by Rachel Romero | Oct 24, 2023 4:59:18 AM
Pets and sober living homes in San Diego - having pets in a sober living house can be a topic of debate.


On the positive side pets can provide comfort, support, and companionship, others believe that they may create additional responsibilities and distractions for individuals in recovery. Pets can be a great addition to a sober living environment. They can offer a sense of purpose and responsibility, helping individuals develop a routine and learn to care for another living being. Additionally, pets can provide emotional support and unconditional love, which can be especially beneficial during the challenging times of recovery.

On the negative side let's talk about accidents - urine inside a home can be devastating to furniture or flooring and expensive to mitigate. People who are suffering with depression or juggling multiple responsibilities may feel like it's too much pressure to feed, take to the vet for care and clean up after.  Of course there's all that money that it can cost to take care of the clean up, care and feeding. 

When you are in a sober living home you live with many others in the home - a key component to community and support.  But multiple people can mean multiple pets.  So here's another important question do all the pets get along??  It's not a simple yes or no. Just like humans, pets have their own unique personalities, preferences, and temperaments.

While some pets naturally get along with others, there are also times when pets aren't the best of friends. It's important to remember that pets, just like humans, have their own boundaries and need their personal space. Introducing pets to each other should be done gradually and in a controlled environment to ensure their safety and well-being. Additionally, providing each pet with their own separate spaces, such as feeding areas and sleeping area, can help minimize  conflicts. Ultimately, while it's possible for pets to get along, it's important to understand that it may not always be the case, and it's crucial to respect their individual needs and preferences.

Ultimately, the decision to have pets in a sober living house should be made on a case-by-case basis, considering the needs and preferences of the individuals in recovery and ensuring that proper guidelines and regulations are in place to maintain a safe and supportive environment.

What would you love to see in the recovery community?  Pets or a pet-free house?  What would you do if a doggy friend or kitty was having accidents?  Let's hear from you! 

If you are looking for a safe, clean (pet free for now) sober living home in San Diego, give us a call at 619-500-3987!!