When I lived on my own for the first time, my Pdoc recommend I get a pet. So I got a dog. I haven't been w/o a dog since. They keep me fighting; keep me alive. I do not consider them a pet, but an actual part of my family.

I actually just got another puppy. I now have 3 dogs: 8 weeks, 2 yrs, and 8 yrs old. I would do anything for them. It was really cool: my T let me bring the puppy to therapy today and told me I can bring her whenever I want. We both sat on the floor the whole session.

Btw, if any of you live in an apartment and they require a pet rent, ask your Pdoc for a letter stating the pet is a companion animal and is necessary for your health. They can't charge you pet rent...at least that's how it is here in CA. And most places have to allow you to have that pet even if they don't normally allow pets. You don't get to take the pet with you like a service dog, but you do get some perks.