Protecting Animals While Supporting Sobriety

Everyone deserves access to treatment—without fear for their pet’s safety.

Sometimes the biggest change comes from solving one very specific problem.

PAWSS was built on a simple idea: when people know their pets are safe, they are more able to seek treatment, focus on recovery, and begin rebuilding their lives. By providing temporary, compassionate care for animals, we remove a powerful barrier to sobriety and help keep people and their pets together.

This small intervention creates meaningful ripple effects — supporting recovery, reducing animal surrender, and strengthening the bond between people and the animals they love.

A person with manicured nails holding a dog's paw.

Big Ideas, Real Impact

38%
​Treatment completion rates increase by
​38% when clients know their pets are safe (Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment).

Foster

91%
91% of people in recovery report their pets are a major source of support (Human-Animal Bond Research Institute, 2021).

Volunteer

50%
Individuals with strong support systems, including pets, show 50% higher rates of sustained recovery (NIDA, 2023).

Donate 
Owner Updates & Connection
We offer regular check-ins, "Guardian"  updates, and photos to help owners stay connected to their pets — strengthening the bond that motivates healing.
Reunion Support
Post-treatment reunion support services help owners and pets transition back to life together smoothly.
Close-up of a cat's paws with a blue bandage wrapped around one leg on a wooden surface
A person bending over in a field, holding a cat gently with the sunset in the background. 
Veterinary Care                                         Comprehensive veterinary care and medical support, including spay and neutering, are provided to ensure the pets' health and well-being.
A dog with a pink towel wrapped around its head, sitting on a plush bed, while a person dries its fur with a towel. 
Ongoing Pet Care                
PAWSS provides pet food, supplies, toys, grooming, and daily care to ensure every pet feels safe, healthy, and loved while their owner is in treatment.
Temporary Housing And Care
PAWSS provides boarding and pet care for animals while their owners undergo addiction treatment, ensuring their furry family members are safe and cared for.​