The results of a new survey has revealed that people in East Anglia are much happier when they've got a four-legged friend around.
A survey of more than 2,000 people from across the region found that 51pc felt lonely at some point during the course of 2016.
This negative feeling was easily overcome by dog owners, as more than 98pc said their furry friend made them happier, while 91pc admitted talking to their dog when no one else was around.
With January, the most depressing month of the year, taking its toll on many, Dogs Trust is encouraging the public to consider fostering a dog as part of their new Home from Home scheme which launches nationwide today.
The mutually beneficial scheme looks to find loving, temporary foster homes for the thousands of dogs in care and allows dog-less dog lovers, who may not have time for a permanent pet or that could not afford one, the opportunity to have valuable and rewarding companionship.
Sarah Abbiss, Home from Home Co-ordinator at Dogs Trust Snetterton said: 'Spending time with a dog won't cure all your problems but it could certainly make you happier so we hope people will consider fostering a dog as a positive resolution for the new year. We have thousands of dogs of all shapes and sizes across our 20 rehoming centres in the UK looking for temporary carers, varying from older dogs who need some extra TLC, litters of puppies, dogs recovering from illness to those who simply cope better in a home environment.'
All fees will be covered by Dogs Trust during the scheme and carers have the option of adopting their foster dog permanently should they wish.
Hilary Wright, who has previously fostered dogs from Snetterton described looking after the cute canines as an 'amazingly rewarding experience'.
She said: 'I've always been dog-orientated and if I didn't have dogs in my life I'd feel lonely - even with plenty of human company! There's something about dogs that helps you cope with day-to-day worries and gives you focus. Now, as I'm no longer working, I'm able to dedicate my days to looking after dogs, and fostering is a great way of doing that without the financial responsibility.'
• For more information about taking part in the Home from Home scheme please visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/fostering
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