Loneliness and social isolation are chronic problems in the elderly in the North East. An estimated 50,000 pensioners in the region are chronically lonely and are 50% more likely to die prematurely than people with good social networks. This means loneliness is as big a mortality risk as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.Many are dog lovers and when they ask for a furry friend from Wag & Company, they get the bonus of a very nice two legged one at the same time. Over 401 amazing Visiting Wag Teams are currently making the difference, from Berwick-upon-Tweed, down to Stokesley, across to Haltwhistle and pretty much everywhere in between.I've decided to run for Wag & Company because I have witnessed first hand the benefits the visits I do with Dan dog make to the people I have had the privilege of meeting. Visits full of smiles, laughter, dog chat and doggy cuddles.