[slang800]

Pets are not a replacement for human interaction.

[jogjayr]

I've noticed that I have far more conversations with strangers when I'm out walking my dog than when I'm out by myself. I've also made acquaintances with the regulars at the dog park. Pets aren't a replacement for human interaction, but they can help facilitate it.

[starpilot]

They're not, but they really help.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-social-self/2011...

[claudiawerner]

Not that I totally agree with GP, but they can certainly help with a lack of human interaction, even if they don't solve the issue.