Dear Abby: Lonely woman should adopt dog

DEAR ABBY: May I respond to "Iowa Reader," the older woman who asked you where to turn when she needed to be hugged and listened to? I'm guessing she was married a long time and doesn't have any real friends - just people from her married days.

I suggest she get a dog. Although dogs can't hug or hold, they do love unconditionally. I would have died of loneliness had it not been for mine. Through her, I have met other older single people on walks and at the dog park. She has given me a way to make new friends and find some company.

- Marcy in Oakland, Calif.

DEAR MARCY: Thanks for your suggestion. Because of you and other compassionate readers, I received a wide range of heartfelt, helpful advice:

DEAR ABBY: I discovered a wonderful way to receive much-needed human contact - partner dancing. It's a safe way to enjoy an intimate connection with a member of the opposite sex, no strings attached.

- Catherine in Hawaii

DEAR ABBY: I encourage her to tutor or read to kids at her local elementary school, visit residents at a nursing home or work at a homeless shelter. There are lots of others out there who need hugs and attention. Volunteers receive far more than they give.

- Dianne in Gainesville, Fla.