When someone decides they need help with a drug or alcohol addiction, or to leave an unsafe living situation, one obstacle they often face is this: While I’m getting help, who will take care of my pets?
For many people, the bond with a dog or cat is a lifeline. But most in-patient treatment programs or domestic violence shelters
can’t allow animals – which can force people to have to choose between recovery or their furry family members.
This didn't sit well with a former veterinary technician named
Serena Saunders. In 2021, she started an unusual nonprofit from her home in Denver called
PAWsitive Recovery. She offered foster care for a few pets of people recovering from mental health issues, addiction or abuse.
It's grown so popular, and the need is so great, that the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals International is now
working to expand it across the U.S.
Serena joined Erin O'Toole to talk about what pushed her to create the PAWsitive Recovery program – and what it’s like to help people working to get their lives back.
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Host and Producer: Erin O'Toole
Executive Producer: Brad Turner
Theme music by Robbie Reverb
Additional music by Blue Dot Sessions
In The NoCo is a production of KUNC News and Community Radio for Northern Colorado.
What is In The NOCO?
KUNC's In The NOCO is a daily look at the stories, news, people and issues important to you. It's a window to the communities along the Colorado Rocky Mountains. The show explores the big stories of the day, bringing context and insight to issues that matter. And because life in Northern Colorado is a balance of work and play, we explore the lighter side of news, highlighting what makes this state such an incredible place to live.