Do We Have to Pay Extra Fees for Pets in Inpatient Rehab for Couples?

When seeking addiction recovery as a couple, it’s not uncommon to want to bring along every part of your support system—including your pet. Pets are often a source of comfort, stability, and emotional grounding, especially during challenging life transitions like entering rehab. At Trinity Behavioral Health, we not only recognize the positive role pets play in mental health and recovery but also offer a pet-friendly inpatient rehab for couples program tailored to your needs.

A common question we receive is: “Do we have to pay extra fees for pets in inpatient rehab for couples?” The answer is: it depends. While we do accommodate pets in our program, there are minimal fees or deposit requirements in place to ensure the safety, comfort, and cleanliness of the facility for all clients and their companions.

This article breaks down everything you need to know about bringing your pet to rehab, what fees may apply, and how we make it possible for couples to recover together—without leaving their furry family members behind.

The Value of Pet-Friendly Inpatient Rehab for Couples

Before diving into the financial details, it’s important to understand why Trinity Behavioral Health offers pet-friendly options in the first place. Many couples find emotional security in the companionship of pets. When entering treatment, the fear of being separated from a beloved animal can create unnecessary anxiety or even delay the decision to seek help.

At Trinity, our goal is to remove those emotional barriers and foster a recovery environment that feels safe and supportive from the start. That’s why our inpatient rehab for couples allows for pets under specific guidelines—so you and your partner can focus on healing, with your emotional anchor by your side.

Are There Extra Fees for Bringing a Pet?

Yes, but the fees are minimal and used strictly to maintain the safety and comfort of our facility. These fees help cover additional cleaning, maintenance, and any pet-related accommodations that go beyond standard care. Here’s what you can typically expect:

1. Pet Accommodation Fee

A one-time or weekly pet accommodation fee may be applied. This fee helps offset the additional cleaning and sanitation needs of shared living spaces when pets are present.

2. Security or Damage Deposit

Some pets, particularly those unfamiliar with new environments, may have accidents or cause unintentional damage. We may require a refundable deposit to ensure any damages can be covered without impacting other residents’ care or experience.

3. Medical or Veterinary Expenses

While we do not charge for your pet’s presence beyond facility-related needs, any medical care, grooming, or food must be covered by you as the owner. We do not provide pet-specific services.

Transparency and Customization of Fees

Our admissions team is committed to full transparency. During your initial consultation, we’ll provide a breakdown of any pet-related costs, and we’ll work with you to determine a financial structure that fits your budget. Fees vary depending on:

• Size and breed of the pet

• Length of your stay

• Number of pets (if more than one is approved)

• Special accommodations or requests

Our goal is to be flexible and fair while maintaining a healthy environment for all patients and pets.

Why Trinity Behavioral Health Supports Pets in Rehab

Most traditional rehab centers do not allow pets—mainly due to liability or operational limitations. Trinity Behavioral Health is proud to be different. We have intentionally created a space where pets can be integrated into the recovery journey, as we believe in treating the whole person—and for many, pets are part of their emotional wellbeing.

Bringing your pet to rehab can:

• Reduce anxiety and emotional distress

• Improve mood and morale

• Encourage responsibility and structure

• Enhance feelings of safety and support during a vulnerable time

These factors contribute to better program retention, improved therapy engagement, and a smoother transition through early recovery.

What Types of Pets Are Allowed?

We primarily accommodate dogs and cats, but we may consider other emotional support animals on a case-by-case basis. All pets must meet the following requirements:

• Current on vaccinations

• House-trained or litter-trained

• Non-aggressive in nature

• Able to remain calm in communal environments

• Cared for directly by their owners

We do not allow exotic animals or any pet that poses a safety or hygiene risk to other residents or staff.

ESA Considerations: Emotional Support Animals vs. Household Pets

It’s important to distinguish between household pets and emotional support animals (ESAs). Both are welcome at Trinity Behavioral Health, but the process and documentation required may differ.

If your animal is a designated ESA, you’ll need a signed letter from a licensed mental health professional stating your need for that animal due to a diagnosed emotional or psychological condition. This designation may affect how your animal is accommodated, and in some cases, ESA status can reduce or eliminate some pet-related fees.

Still, ESAs are held to the same behavioral and health standards as other pets.

Planning Ahead: What to Pack for Your Pet

To make your stay as smooth as possible, we ask couples to bring the following for their pets:

• Food and food/water bowls

• Crate or bed

• Leash, collar, and ID tags

• Cleaning supplies (waste bags, litter, etc.)

• Toys or comfort items

• Any necessary medications

These items are not supplied by the facility and are the responsibility of the pet owner(s).

Can You and Your Partner Share Pet Responsibilities?

Yes—and in fact, it’s encouraged. One of the strengths of our inpatient rehab for couples is the ability to foster teamwork, shared accountability, and relationship healing. Caring for a pet together during rehab can:

• Rebuild trust

• Strengthen your emotional bond

• Reinforce shared goals and routines

• Provide a calming influence in emotionally challenging moments

We often hear from couples that sharing the care of a pet helps them reconnect in positive and constructive ways during the rehab process.

What Happens If Pet Care Becomes a Challenge?

Our staff is here to support—not just you and your partner—but your pet as well. However, it’s important to understand that the primary responsibility lies with the couple. If caring for the pet becomes overwhelming or creates a disruption in treatment, we will work with you to find a solution. Options might include:

• Bringing in a family member to temporarily care for the pet

• Partnering with a local boarding service

• Temporarily removing the pet until the issue is resolved

Our goal is always to maintain a healing environment that benefits everyone involved.

Conclusion: Pet-Friendly, Relationship-Focused Healing That Works

At Trinity Behavioral Health, we are proud to lead the way in inpatient rehab for couples by offering pet-inclusive treatment options that honor your emotional needs and support system. While there may be a modest fee or deposit required to accommodate pets in our facility, this investment is minimal when compared to the emotional comfort, motivation, and companionship a pet brings during the recovery process.

Our comprehensive, couple-centered approach empowers you and your partner to heal—together—with your entire family unit, including your four-legged friends. If the presence of your pet is an essential part of your mental health and well-being, rest assured you will find a welcoming, flexible environment at Trinity Behavioral Health.

FAQs About Pet Fees in Inpatient Rehab for Couples

1. How much are the pet fees at Trinity Behavioral Health?

Fees can vary depending on the pet’s size, breed, and specific care needs. Generally, you can expect a one-time pet accommodation fee and possibly a refundable security deposit. Our admissions team will provide exact figures based on your situation.

2. Are fees waived if the animal is an emotional support animal (ESA)?

In some cases, fees may be reduced or waived for certified emotional support animals, depending on the documentation provided. However, ESAs are still subject to behavioral and health standards.

3. Is the pet fee covered by insurance?

No, pet-related fees are not covered by health insurance. These fees are out-of-pocket expenses and are paid separately from your treatment costs.

4. Can my pet stay in the room with us?

Yes, pets are allowed to stay in your private living quarters with you and your partner. This helps maintain a familiar and comforting environment throughout your stay.

5. What happens if our pet causes damage or becomes a distraction?

If your pet becomes disruptive or causes damage, we will work with you to address the issue. A refundable deposit may be used to cover any damages. In some cases, off-site arrangements may be necessary to preserve a safe and effective treatment setting.

Read: What are the rules for having pets in pet-friendly inpatient rehab for couples?

Read: Can couples stay together during inpatient rehab at Trinity Behavioral Health?