Table 3 An overview of categories and subcategories

1

You get to know people

1

Finding a network

2

Being part of society

3

Creating safety and more positive relationships

2

I couldn’t just let everything be messy around me

1

Closest relationship one has

2

Unbreakable bond

3

Something of worth in life

4

Pet before self

3

He gives me fixed routines

1

She was employment for me

2

Creating boundaries

3

I had to calm down

4

Challenge of economy

4

Because I had a dog, we cannot get accommodation

1

I am being punished

2

I have to do it myself

3

He is therapeutic for me