I hope it helps. Studies have shown animals are good for stress. People with pets even tend to live longer (though that is just one aspect of increasing longevity). I see it in my grandmother all the time. She always has a smallish dog she keeps indoors and it seems to keep her going, and she absolutely loves talking about her dog. You can just hear the happiness in her voice. She's 86, slowing down but still living on her own, keeps chickens even, gathers eggs daily. She only just stopped driving a year ago. Part of her longevity too is that she's always been very active; not exercising per se but gardening, planting, weeding, raking, etc.

I'm glad having a pet is helping you feel better