Stronger Together: How addiction can affect an entire household, including animals

COACHELLA VALLEY, Calif. (KESQ) - News Channel 3’s special report, “Stronger Together: United Against Drug Abuse,” is a new monthly initiative presented in partnership with Mothers for Awareness and Prevention of Drug Abuse, or MAPDA.

Led by anchor and investigative reporter Karen Devine, who has covered prescription drug abuse and the growing fentanyl crisis since 2009, the series will go beyond the statistics to share personal stories, examine the far-reaching effects of addiction, and connect families with potentially lifesaving information and resources.

The inaugural report features veterinarian and MAPDA advocate Dr. Lisa Bane, who offers a rarely discussed perspective on how addiction can affect an entire household, including the animals depending on someone who may no longer be able to provide proper care.

Watch the special report, Thursday at 6:00 p.m. on News Channel 3.