There are upsides to taking on this responsibility, though. Animals are great companions, especially if you’re living alone during these uncertain times. They can provide friendship as a mental and emotional relief to distract from the harsh realities of what we’re facing as a collective. “One of the only positives to my day has been seeing my dog, and it's only been the only reason I've had to go outside.” says Kellen Coates (19),  who owns one dog and two cats. “It's nice to see your pets at a time like this [because] of all that unconditional love they have to give, as well them having no clue what's actually going on, they're just happy we're home with them!”