Thanks for that. When there is a very strong bond with your dog or cat, and they are always there, with unconditional love and attention, it is really all you need sometimes emotionally. I am not ashamed to say, that I am closer to my dog than my siblings. If the world is crazy, and nothing makes sense sometimes, there is nothing that can comfort you more than snuggling down with your dog, and losing yourself in their company, and a cuddle. It also works the other way. I lost My girl Honey (in my avatar) in December 2011 to a nasal tumour,spreading aggressively to an eye socket) in something like 8 weeks roughly from start of symptoms, to PTS at home. I was there for her, whatever her needs, to the detriment of my own.Afterwards, in my darkest moments, her son Solo, brings me out of my despair at losing her, with his need for attention, and grounds me. This is a reversal of a human with cancer, but none the less, Solo, has helped me on a human level with grieving and loss, and his loss of his mum, so we help each other. Honey also knew when I wasn't well, and behaved in a much more attentive way. So I beleive the close bond with your pet, helps in all sorts of ways when faced with life changing difficult times. My point is, love, and the bond between an animal benefits us on many levels. But it is very interesting to see these studies going on.