The treatment for an alcohol or drug addiction is an ongoing commitment. This means that the recovery from addiction takes a considerable amount of effort, commitment, and patience. An addict will often feel as if he or she must keep using drugs or alcohol in order to feel better. With that said, no one has the right to abuse another human being. No one should be allowed to harm another person. Alcohol or Drug Addiction: Treatment for addiction requires both therapy and intervention. Aftercare: An ongoing plan developed by the patient and his or her family to further improve the chances of successful recovery after formal addiction treatment has been completed. Animal assisted therapy: A form of treatment that involves exposure to, and care of animals in a more comprehensive addiction treatment program than is typically offered. The individual is immersed in the physical and emotional needs of the animal, such as companionship, social interaction, exercise, and learning. This form of therapy not only teaches the addict how to handle his or her addiction with compassion but also promotes a sense of empathy toward the animal. Animal assisted therapy is often recommended for individuals struggling with alcohol or drug addiction because of the positive results it yields. A variety of animals are used, including cats, dogs, dolphins, horses, and parrots. A comprehensive treatment plan should take into consideration all of the issues, which include the individual’s substance abuse, their underlying mental illness, and any other co-occurring conditions they may have. This is also an opportunity to provide the individual with support systems they may not otherwise have. A well-rounded and holistic treatment plan will provide both short-term and long-term benefits. In short, it provides the addict with a chance to turn their life around in a way that he or she could not do on their own.