Okay, I won’t lie, this episode may be a tad … heavy. But it’s important, and there’s still some levity too, I promise!Today’s talk with fellow writer and my dear friend, Chris Dale, is an exercise in honesty and recovery. We don’t hold back as we both revisit some of the most difficult times in our lives. From struggling with addictions to how we found healing, Chris and I reflect on our ongoing journeys and more importantly, how our rescues dogs played an integral role in finding wellness. Chris’s stories about his senior dog, Vector, and how Vector helped him rebuild his self-esteem and self-worth are so heartwarming and beautiful. And even hearing him share his fear over losing Vector one day, just as I feared the loss of my sweet Ophelia, brings about a conversation of deep meaning as we discuss the interwoven relationship between our recovery and our beloveds.Tune into this raw and vulnerable episode and hear evidence of how animals are uniquely poised with a remarkable ability to save us from ourselves.**TW: This episode mentions alcoholism, addiction, suicide ideation, and eating disorders.Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)