I strongly second this post. I raised a puppy during COVID lockdowns while working remotely. Raising, training, and socializing a dog are great training wheels

I strongly second this post. I raised a puppy during COVID lockdowns while working remotely. Raising, training, and socializing a dog are great training wheels for later becoming a parent. It is a lot more forgiving, and the childhood phase for a dog is way, way shorter than it is for a child. If you can tough it out for 8-10 months, you'll also benefit from a loyal and well-behaved companion. There are also the additional benefits of befriending other dog owners, and the emotional support from a pet. Not sure if this will work the same for a cat, but it doesn't hurt to try!