We are Pet Friendly
At CITA Clinics all pets are welcome.
We believe that the company of your pet will help in your treatment.
At CITA Clinics, (Centre for Addiction Research and Treatment) we understand the importance of your overall well-being, including the bond you have with your pet! We know that dealing with addiction is a challenging process, but we are here to offer you a unique and comforting solution: go through treatment with your faithful companion!
Why is it beneficial to include your pet in your recovery process?
- Unconditional emotional support: Your pet is more than an animal; it is a member of your family who gives you love and support without judgement. During treatment, your pet will be there to comfort you during difficult times, providing you with a constant source of comfort.
- Reduced stress and anxiety: The presence of your pet has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety in times of crisis. Having your pet with you during treatment will help you stay calm and cope better with difficult situations.
- Accountability and routine: Caring for your pet involves establishing a daily routine, which is essential in addiction recovery. This accountability will help you stay focused on your goals and establish structure in your life.
- Exercise and physical activity: Walking your pet is a great way to stay active and committed to a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise not only benefits your physical health, but also improves your mood and overall well-being.
- Commitment and motivation: Knowing that you have your pet depending on you motivates you to keep moving forward in your recovery process. Commitment to your furry companion drives you to be consistent and strive to improve every day.
At CITA we take the first step with you…
The benefit of pets in addiction treatment
Animal-assisted therapy has emerged as an innovative intervention that complements traditional approaches to addiction rehabilitation. This practice, backed by growing scientific evidence, uses the presence of pets such as dogs, cats or other animals in therapy sessions to improve the health and well-being of patients.
Animal-assisted therapy
Animal-assisted therapy is based on the idea that interaction with animals can have positive therapeutic effects on people. Animals are specifically selected and trained to provide emotional, social and psychological support to individuals in a variety of contexts, including addiction treatment.
Scientific evidence
Recent studies have demonstrated the benefits of animal-assisted therapy in the treatment of addiction. Research has found that the presence of pets can reduce stress, anxiety and depression in rehabilitation patients, thus improving their quality of life and their ability to stay sober.
Key factors for success
For therapy animals to be effective, it is essential to establish a strong human-animal bond and to ensure that pet therapists are properly trained and certified to work with rehabilitation patients.
Specific benefits in addiction treatment
Animal-assisted therapy offers a wide range of specific benefits for people in addiction treatment.
Stress and anxiety reduction
The presence of pets can reduce cortisol levels and increase the release of hormones associated with happiness and relaxation, which helps patients cope with stress and anxiety during their recovery.
Improved mood and self-esteem
Unconditional affection from pets can significantly improve patients’ mood and strengthen their self-esteem, providing a sense of connection and purpose.
Promoting responsibility and discipline
Caring for a therapy pet promotes responsibility and discipline, as patients must meet the animal’s daily needs, such as feeding, exercise and medical care.
Emotional and social support
Pets can act as caring companions who provide emotional and social support to patients, helping them overcome feelings of loneliness and isolation during their recovery process.
Increased motivation and treatment adherence
The presence of pets can increase patients’ motivation to participate in their treatment and adhere to medical recommendations, reducing the risk of relapse and improving long-term outcomes.
What do our patients say about us?
At CITA we take the first step with you…
Why choose CITA?
We have professionals with more than 40 years of experience
Expert help is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
We apply and adapt to the latest advances in neuroscience
All pets are welcome on our expansive, green campus