dogs (and cats) give us unconditional love. all they ask for in return are food, being able to relieve themselves , vet care, and attention.

they give us..a reason to live. you have to get up to do this...which is a good thing. walking your dog gives you exercise..fresh air, some conversation maybe, and it boosts the good chemicals in your body. serotonin! go hiking. get outside, enjoy yourself..go to a dog park.

having a dog keep me alive. who will care for him if i don't?

my dog doesn't need top notch a-1 best of everything stuff. it would be nice but i give him the best i can. and he appreciates it. he gives me back the best of everything he can. top notch. always. i'm sad, he is there. happy? the same.

my dog is a partner in life. not a slave. nowhere even close. that is a terrible thing to think about in the relationship.

i can't see anyone too depressed to keep a pet...i imagine a pet would help with keeping depression at bay.