Healing isn’t just for humans.
At Sunstone, recovery is about more than just staying sober, it’s about finding connection, building trust, and rediscovering purpose. And sometimes, those lessons come with four legs and a wagging tail.
That’s the heart behind Paws 4 Recovery, our in-house foster program that pairs rescue dogs with the residents in our recovery housing community. Each pup we bring into the house gets a second chance and gives one in return.
Meet Robert: Our First Furry Teammate
Robert wasn’t just a rescue dog; he was our very first. He came to Sunstone with a big heart, gentle eyes, and an immediate love for every person he met. Residents stepped up to feed him, walk him, and make sure he had plenty of snuggles and squeaky toys. He didn’t just need them – they needed him too.
Robert brought the house together. His presence was calming, joyful, and unifying. He gave residents something consistent to care for… and someone who loved them without condition.
The Bond That Changed Two Lives
During Robert’s time at Sunstone, one resident, Amanda, formed a special bond with him. She began to dream about what it would take to adopt him. Her own place, her own path, and the stability to make it happen.
And she did.
Amanda reached a point in her recovery where she was ready to move forward, and when she did, Robert went with her. She shared with our team how important he was to her sobriety. When days were hard, Robert was there waiting, loving, depending on her. And that responsibility helped her stay grounded.
Recovery Isn’t Always a Straight Line
Almost two years after moving out, Amanda faced new challenges. Recovery isn’t always linear, and when she needed support again, she reached out.
We welcomed her back.
As Amanda returned to treatment and rebuilt her foundation, Robert came back to Sunstone. And just like before, he lit up the house. With a ball in his mouth and a tail that never stops wagging, Robert reminded everyone what recovery can look like: resilience, community, and unconditional love.
Amanda is now back at Sunstone too. Working hard to get back on her feet, supported by a team that never stopped believing in her.
One Dog. Dozens of Lives Touched.
Robert may have started as our first Paws 4 Recovery pup, but he paved the way for many more. Today, eight dogs have passed through Sunstone on their way to forever homes. Along the way, they’ve given our residents comfort, responsibility, joy, and healing.
These dogs don’t just get rescued—they help rescue others, too.
