For seniors, companionship is an important part of avoiding isolation and keeping energy levels high. Canine companions provide this in spades and can be a great addition to senior living.

Who's this for? Pets Best's rates are among the lowest for senior dogs and its basic plan covers UTIs, periodontal disease, chronic illnesses and hereditary conditions like hip dysplasia and glaucoma.

Instead, things are much more mixed, as having a pet can sometimes have its downsides. And that’s the case for seniors too. A study by Ann M. Toohey at the University of Calgary published last ...

While the companionship provided is understandably different from what is offered by another person, it also came with other potential social benefits for the seniors who owned pets.