I have found that when an animal comes into our lives without us looking for them, it is because we need them. Bruno (a really big dog when he grew up) showed up on my porch at a bad time in my life and was there for the other times that came quickly after. (lost husband, x husband and son in 9 mos) he was a huge gentle and loving dog who thought he was a lap dog. He lived 12 yrs. also when you lose one cat, a new one will appear. Baby girl is my latest. She sits on my lap and shiloh my doxie (he was originally an abused dog) lies next to me when I sit and read, and then in bed at nite. I feel loved......what more do we need?