Lessons from Rescue Dogs: Mike Todd's Journey to Recovery
I've learned some things about my recovery through these animals... Sadie was teaching us a lot. He just chose to love me through all that. So in most cases, most field surrenders are just given up by their owners in lieu of fines or whatever. And pretty obvious that probably Sadie was left outside with no shelter. She still struggles when the storms come in, but not as much, and so do I.
Mike Todd, the compassionate host of The Recovery First Podcast, takes listeners on an unexpected yet heartwarming journey in this episode. He opens up about how his experience with rescue dogs has profoundly impacted his own path to recovery. Through stories of his furry companions, Mike draws parallels between the resilience and unconditional love of these animals and the challenges and triumphs of overcoming addiction.
One standout story is about Sadie, a rescue dog who faced her own set of struggles, particularly with thunderstorms. Mike recounts how Sadie's ability to weather the storm and still show love taught him invaluable lessons about self-worth and compassion. It's a touching reminder that healing can come from the most unexpected places. This episode isn't just about personal anecdotes. Mike also highlights the vital role of community-based Recovery Community Organizations and NGOs in both local and national contexts.
He underscores the importance of training, mentoring, and advocating for recovery housing operators, emphasizing that a supportive community is crucial for long-term recovery. Whether you're someone on your own recovery journey, a loved one supporting someone through theirs, or simply interested in inspiring stories of resilience, this episode offers something for everyone. Mike's reflections on caring for rescue animals serve as a powerful metaphor for the broader themes of love, compassion, and community support in the recovery process.