I think so. I think that people that live alone, most of the time if they can, will have an animal at least to love, and get love from. A lonely person is sad, and won't live as long as the next person who has people or pets in their lives. Sad.

 It is a proven fact. Orphans who were deprived of Human touch, and Love, were dying. They call it, 'failure to thrive'. We are social creatures. Without the company of our own, we die. Internally or completely.

 Yes. Even if we didn't physically die, we'll die emotionally and mentally.

 Yes without it I probably wouldn't be here anymore. I am bipolar and went through a suicidal stage so if someone hadn't been there and truly loved me I would be history.