Hi, yes completely agree on the pets thing. There's been a lot of research proving that having pets reduces stress and BP, promotes positive thinking and health, and lengthens your life. Plus they're so funny and caring and they don't answer back!

I have a little cocker spaniel and two cats, one ginger male and one petite black female. They are all very affectionate, and I love that now while I'm poorly in bed a lot, they all gather round purring and snuffling, and generally make you feel like someone cares and has your back lol. There's something timeless and calming about stroking an animal, it's amazingly healing I think.

Personally I couldn't have another dog as its my poor husband who does the majority of the dog-walking now and it wouldn't be fair on him. Plus we only have a little house lol, and I don't know where it would bunk!

Bram.