Research shows that spending time caring for an animal — even a plant — can provide a tremendous joy boost.

The soft and pliable materials mean the robot’s four legs are capable of conforming to their surrounds, so its on-board sensors don’t need a precise picture of the ground in traverse it.

Sometimes, that someone in need can have four legs, a cute little furry body and unconditional love to give. | Funds for Furry Friends held its sixth annual “Raise the Woof” event on Jan. 26 ...