|
Finding foster homes for dogs, so their humans can go to rehab.
Many addicts view their dogs as family, and while these addicts know they need rehab, won't go unless their dog can live in a loving foster home while they are gone.
Stephen Knight understanding their situation founded such a foster home arrangement in 2015, a Dallas based nonprofit called Dogs Matter.
How does Stephen understand their situation? He is a recovering addict.
(Story continues from "Read More")
In 2011, when Stephen was 51, his meth addiction had taken everything - his family, his home, his career and nearly his life.
Living in his car, and HIV positive, Stephen went to rehab, and became sober.
Later, a friend brought him her little dog Jayde. This woman had relapsed and could not keep Jayde.
"I looked at Jayde, and we looked at each other," Stephen told CNN. "It was one of the most spiritual moments, like 'I think we might need each other.'"
Because many animal shelters have too many dogs, some euthanize the ones they cannot place to make room for more. Stephen saw an opportunity to help.
He learned proper pet care, and how to recruit foster parents to care for the dogs he received while their pet parents were away.
His Dogs Matter offers a full range of services. It has rescued 1,200 dogs, and rescued many of their human companions.
As for Stephen, he is 14 years sober and lives with his dogs, Jayde, Piper and Lady.
In December, CNN named him their 2024 Hero of the Year. In his acceptance, Stephen said, "I share this award with Jayde. She's the reason why I did this."
"And ... 1,200 dogs later it's amazing. It's just beginning too."
Editor's Note:
To learn more https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/08/world/cnn-hero-of-the-year-stephen-knight-dogs-matter-foster-addiction-cnnheroes/index.html and https://www.dogsmatter2.org/.
In The Next KazanToday: How A Good Samaritan saved an adorable dog's life.
|
