When Dog Owners Go to Rehab, He’s Making Sure Their Pets Are Cared For
Stephen Knight, a former meth addict, learned that people often delay or forgo substance abuse treatment because they cannot find safe housing for their pets. This realization sparked an act of kindness that led to thousands of dogs receiving the help they require. Knight opened his home and heart to Jayde, a dog he rescued, and soon discovered that many individuals faced challenges in finding temporary homes for their cherished pets while undergoing treatment.
These shelters are operating at 150 percent capacity. When overcrowded, the only option is often to euthanize dogs. Knight recognized this issue and began rescuing dogs like Jayde, becoming a source of hope for addicts and their furry companions. The bond between humans and animals significantly impacts recovery, as people remained sober and found purpose.
Knight founded his organization, Dogs Matter, in 2015. At his peak capacity, he was fostering eight dogs in his modest home. After a mishap while intervening in a toy dispute between two dogs, he realized he had much to learn. Seeking guidance from a local rescue, Pets Alive, he adopted a more structured approach and educated himself on best practices for animal rescue and care.
Today, Dogs Matter has aided over 1,200 dogs and their owners. Knight shares his life with three dogs: Jayde, Piper, and Lady. He aspires to turn Dogs Matter into a national model, aiming to offer other animals and their humans the same opportunity for a second chance at life that he received. When someone chooses to enter treatment, it’s one of the most significant and courageous decisions they will make, and what Knight teaches his clients is that with sobriety and recovery, you can truly achieve a life beyond your wildest dreams.
