TXST student leads study on how a resident dog may help women in recovery

At The Pearl Wellness for Women in Elgin, a French bulldog named Bougie is more than a visitor. The resident dog is part of daily life for women receiving treatment for substance use. For Texas State University senior Morgan Gaither, Bougie’s steady companionship inspired a question: Can a bond with a resident dog help women feel more connected as they begin recovery?

Gaither, who is pursuing a bachelor of science in psychology with minors in data analytics and criminal justice, is the study’s principal investigator. She is examining whether a strong bond with a resident canine is associated with stronger interpersonal connection and spiritual well-being among women receiving treatment.

“Some individuals may find it easier to build a connection with an animal who loves unconditionally, especially in those crucial days in early recovery before they feel able to trust humans again,” Gaither said.

Gaither’s interest in the research began years before she arrived at TXST. During her own treatment through the family of programs, including The Pearl, she found comfort in the constant presence of a canine companion named Buddha. 

Gaither has chosen to speak openly about her recovery and the experiences that shaped her interest in this research. Now, those experiences help guide research that could give treatment providers new information about how animals may complement care for women in recovery.

The study began collecting data on Aug. 5 and is expected to continue through mid-February. Women receiving care at The Pearl may complete surveys at the beginning and end of their stay. The surveys explore their connections with the resident dog, other people, and their own sense of spiritual well-being.

Priscilla Goble, Ph.D., associate professor in the School of Family and Consumer Sciences, serves as Gaither’s faculty mentor. Gaither was selected from a competitive pool of applicants to join Goble’s lab through TXST’s OUR HDFS fellowship. The National Science Foundation-funded program gives undergraduate students hands-on research experience and preparation for graduate school and research careers.

“Morgan Gaither is a remarkable example of when ambition meets opportunity,” Goble said. “As a student researcher, she brings a rare blend of curiosity and lived experience that elevates her work.”

The partnership combines university research expertise with practical day-to-day experience of The Pearl’s treatment team.

“At The Pearl, we believe the best treatment is always evolving,” said Marsha Stone, founder and CEO of Foundation Stone Family of Programs. “Partnering with Texas State gives us the opportunity to contribute to meaningful research while learning more about the unique experiences and needs of women in recovery. Our hope is that this work not only strengthens the care we provide today, but helps shape better treatment for women for years to come.”

Gaither hopes her research can improve substance use treatment policies and practices, and provide stronger support for people transitioning from treatment back into their families, workplaces, and communities. The recovery community that supported Gaither is now the community she hopes to serve.

“I just want to help people,” Gaither said. “If sharing my story helps even just one other person, it’s worth it.”