Fear of Leaving Your Pet Behind? How Pawsitive Recovery Supports Your Recovery JourneyFear of Leaving Your Pet Behind? How Pawsitive Recovery Supports Your Recovery Journey
Recovery Matters! Podcast
Recovery Matters Podcast Episode 185
24:41•1 Jul 2025
Recovery Through Paws: How Pets Aid Sobriety
Episode Overview
- Pawsitive Recovery provides foster care for pets during treatment.
- Workshops integrate animals into recovery processes.
- Therapy dogs help open up discussions about trauma.
- Animal-human bonds are crucial in rebuilding personal relationships.
- The programme has expanded beyond Denver, offering national support.
“"The only thing in your life that's going to show you unconditional love and support is your dog."”
In this episode of Recovery Matters! Podcast, Serena Saunders, founder of Pawsitive Recovery, shares her remarkable journey from addiction to creating a unique programme that supports people in recovery through the bond with their pets. Serena recounts her turbulent childhood, marked by her mother's struggles with schizophrenia and her father's sociopathic tendencies, which set the stage for her early substance abuse. Despite these challenges, Serena's passion for animals became a lifeline during her recovery.
Serena explains how Pawsitive Recovery offers foster care for pets, allowing individuals to focus on their treatment without the worry of leaving their furry companions behind. This innovative approach not only alleviates the trauma of separation but also helps rebuild relationships with loved ones once sobriety is achieved. Serena’s dedication shines through as she describes how the programme has grown, now providing workshops and therapy dog visits to rehabilitation centres.
With a sprinkle of humour and heartfelt anecdotes, Serena illustrates the profound impact pets can have on mental health and recovery. Her story is a testament to resilience and the power of unconditional love from our four-legged friends. If you’ve ever wondered how a pet could be part of your recovery journey, this episode might just hold the answer.

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