Have you considered getting a dog or cat? Dogs provide emotional support and warm comfort. Cats can be a bit more aloof but many do snuggle up providing warm comfort and connection. Having been raised in a house with TOO MANY cats I lean towards dogs as better for giving humans love and comfort. A small, older dog might be perfect. Walking a dog outdoors is a great way to meet people. Depending on your neighborhood kids and adults will sometimes come up wanting to pet your dog and exchange dog stories. Dog parks are another place to meet people as long as they have a separate section for small dogs.

If you're allergic there are now a lot of mixed breeds with a poodle as half the mix. Poodles add no-shed coats and lower allergy risk. My son has a Bernadoodle (Bernese Mt Dog and Poodle)and I once cared for the most adorable Peekapoo, (Pekinese and Poodle). There are so many different ones now I've lost track of them all. Purchased as puppies they can bee very expensive but you might find one needing a home at the pound.

I could go on and on with good reasons to have a dog, if you can have a plan if you should be unable to care for it in the near future.

Now the cat lovers out there can have their say. Cats are less fuss and bother, except for the litter box, and some do dote on their owners. There are so many at the shelters that it is heartbreaking.

Good luck and take care!