Buddy isn’t a “thing”, but I don’t know what I’d do without him.  He keeps me company and entertained.  He’s my favorite even when he’s heavy breathing on me to go outside and play catch.  Or drooling on me.  He’s so excited to see me when I come home from work that his whole body wags.  He talks to me and tells me about his day.  If you don’t have a dog, or if you’ve lost yours due to illness, you should consider getting one.  Yes, I’m talking to you, my friend.