Hi, we've all heard of the benefits of pet ownership for the average person, but I was wondering what is the REALITY of living with a pet when you suffer from anxiety disorders? I would like to hear about personal experiences both good and bad, if a pet actually does really help or not.

We are considering a small dog (papillon size) as I cannot go out very far yet (whilst also being a companion). If anyone has a small dog - are they safe to go into parks where there are big dogs, tied outside shops, etc? If I think it will get gobbled up by a bigger animal I will be too scared to take it out - they look so fragile, but I cannot walk a bigger dog yet!!!