People lives have been saved by pets. As you got a living being depending on you, you feel a reason to live and a source of affection and smiles. Dogs for me are better, dogs are like toddler who treat you as the best thing in the world, while cats are like grumpy teens lol But the work they require is equivalent. A dog will need much more time and attentions, daily walks and exercises, cats can be left alone for long, they don't require walks or restrict your life like that. You will find more emotional satisfaction in dogs. But cats are good too. I hated them before knowing an awesome cat ladies who made overcome my prejudices.