So, I lost my beloved Bullmastiff, Bobby, 6 years ago and have been unable to replace him as my conditions make it impossible for me to care for another dog full-time. However, this has been tempered by my bond with Jasper, my daughter's Border Collie. I usually get to see him every couple of months and look after him for a week (with help from my ex) twice a year.
But now my daughter is moving and Jasper is with me for a whole MONTH! He is the only creature, human or animal, that I can stand touching me - the searing pains seem somehow diminished as my serotonin levels rise. Perhaps it will be a good month.
Does anyone else find that the touch of their pet brings about physical or mental wellbeing?