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  • Writer's picturePam @ PH

Meet Our New VIP (Very Important Pup)

Several weeks ago, Purpose House lost a beloved friend, Ralph Tobiason. Ralph left behind his son, Alan Tobiason, our Executive Director, a multitude of friends, and his little dog Babe. Losing Ralph has been incredibly painful for the humans who loved him, and it's been hard on Babe as well. After much deliberation, Babe was placed in the loving care of Tiffany, one of our House Leaders.


How Pets Help With Recovery


Addiction comes with a price. We wade through our past mistakes, examine our part in the problems, battle shame, and face grief over loved ones we've hurt and missed opportunities.


Because addiction affects our minds, body, and spirit, we must also recover in all three areas. According to Helpguide.org, pets help improve our physical and mental health.

"Playing with a dog or cat can elevate levels of serotonin and dopamine, which calm and relax."

Lawrence Robinson and Jeanne Segal, Ph.D. explain that pet owners:

  • Are less likely to suffer from depression.

  • Often have lower blood pressure in stressful situations.

  • Have lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels (indicators of heart disease) than those without pets.

  • Over age 65 make 30 percent fewer visits to their doctors than those without pets. (1)

Having Babe in the house helps everyone heal and recover. She's quickly adapted to life in the house, and she's already attached to her new humans. She spends her free time watching squirrels play in the yard and waits on this chair for Tiffany to come home.

 

References:

  1. Lawrence Robinson and Jeanne Segal, Ph.D. The Mood Boosting Power of Pets

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