If you're not working you have some free time to volunteer(iknow iknow, again? you're thinking) at one of the dog rescue groups. less commitment than adopting, but there are people in and out and you can walk the dogs or take them to a park, where people (mostly sober) hang out.
another thought about this is employment. in my area, we have to pay over $20.00 an hour for someone to walk the dog and play with him while I'm at work....i currently have a 17 year old who is going to college next year...his mom offered to take the job.