- \n
- Improved life satisfaction<\/li>\n
- A sense of purpose<\/li>\n
- Healthy self-esteem<\/li>\n
- Reduced risk of cardiovascular issues and death following a heart attack<\/li>\n
- Less depression and other negative emotions<\/li>\n
- Fewer doctor visits or health issues<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Some of these impacts can be particularly helpful for someone in treatment dealing with intense emotional issues.<\/p>\n
Resident Dogs Help to Reduce Loneliness<\/h3>\n
Let\u2019s be honest: starting treatment and leaving home for an extended time can be an intimidating experience. You might miss family, friends, and especially your furry baby. Having a dog on-site can help to reduce feelings of loneliness and provide a source of comfort when you\u2019re missing home.<\/p>\n
Humans are social by nature: we need emotional connection and physical touch<\/a>. Science tells us that people who feel emotionally isolated or lack physical touch can experience increased depression and pain and struggle with lowered immunity. Luckily, dogs can help ease feelings of loneliness<\/a> and isolation.<\/p>\n
Whether it\u2019s a quick ear scratch or a walk on the grounds, a resident dog can be the companion you need to ease loneliness and help you focus on something positive. Even the simple act of petting a dog can be soothing. A soft, loving companion makes us feel less alone.<\/p>\n
Resident Dogs Help Us Connect with Others<\/h3>\n
If you have a dog, you\u2019ve probably experienced the spontaneous interactions that tend to happen when you\u2019re out on a walk \u2013 they\u2019re kind of like a cute ice breaker. People seem to relax and connect more naturally when a dog is present, and that’s not your imagination.<\/p>\n
People with companion pets tend to be more open<\/a> to getting to know others. People perceive dog parents as more friendly, supportive, approachable, and conversational. Dogs make it easier for us to connect with others in group settings<\/a> because they make people feel more cooperative, friendly, attentive, and engaged with others.<\/p>\n
In treatment, you\u2019ll spend a good bit of time with others in the program. Whether in a formal group or relaxing between meetings, you\u2019ll have lots of opportunities to meet new people. Having a dog in the treatment setting can make entering a new routine with new people less stressful and encourage social connection.<\/p>\n
From walking through the door for the first time or attending your first group session, a resident dog can be that friendly support we all need.<\/p>\n
Resident Dogs Are Great Stress-Relievers<\/h3>\n
Treatment is emotionally taxing, and sometimes, opening up isn’t easy. A dog can help you cope in stressful situations by reducing anxiety<\/a>. Dogs can help lower your heart rate and stress hormones after a stressful event, even more than interacting with a friend or handling things independently.<\/p>\n
Watching dog videos has a similar effect, even without an in-person furry friend. It\u2019s no wonder that businesses of all kinds are bringing dogs on site to help people deal with stress.<\/p>\n
Unlike humans, dogs are non-judgmental and capable of offering unconditional love and support. They live in the moment and don\u2019t know or care what your past may be. Dogs seem to have a keen sense of when they’re needed most; whether you have to make a tough call home, you\u2019re struggling with the new normal, or you just finished an intense family session, having a dog nearby to comfort you can help to dissipate the stress.<\/p>\n
Resident Dogs Promote Good Health<\/h3>\n
Dogs offer several health benefits, from reduced risk of death to greater life satisfaction and overall good physical and mental health. Why does that matter in treatment?<\/p>\n
During treatment, you’re going to be unpacking and working through a lot of intense emotions. Finding a way to care for yourself physically, emotionally, and spiritually is essential.<\/p>\n
Physical and emotional wellness can provide a solid foundation for your recovery process. A resident dog can help give that extra incentive to go for a walk, play ball, or step out to get some sun and fresh air together.<\/p>\n
![\"Hope](\"https:\/\/apn.com\/dfw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/08\/20220716_122803-2000x1500.jpg\")
<\/p>\nHope at APN<\/h2>\n
All Points North Lodge is proud to share that we’ve welcomed our own resident dog. Hope<\/a> is a sweet and spunky white Labrador Retriever who has joined our Hospitality team as the Lead Coordinator of Snuggles. Right now, she\u2019s focusing her studies on learning the ins and outs of the Lodge from her dad, our Director of Hospitality, Kevin Shields<\/a>.<\/p>\n
Hope will serve as our four-legged ambassador of good feels and will share snuggles, offer emotional support, and shake paws. Clients and APN employees will be able to spend time with her and find that comfort, support, or just plain fun that only a dog can provide.<\/p>\n
We will share updates on Hope\u2019s life at the Lodge on the blog and via Instagram @apnhope<\/a>.<\/p>\n
Find Hope and Healing at All Points North Lodge<\/h2>\n
Healing is a journey, but you don’t have to move forward alone \u2013 sometimes, support comes with four paws. At All Points North Lodge<\/a>, we understand the importance of support and comfort in all its forms. Our expert intake specialists are ready to help you take the next steps<\/a> towards healing and recovery.<\/p>\n
Nestled in the beautiful Rocky Mountains, APN Lodge offers a luxury rehab experience with the perfect environment for healing, personal growth, and recovery. We employ evidence-based, client-centered treatment approaches supervised by our team of clinicians.<\/p>\n