Stop in for a cup of coffee

The MIL took our dog Charlie, and kept him while we were both deployed. It took us another six months to get him back. We got him, but only with the understanding he came back to her every few months for a two week visit. When my FIL passed a few years later, my wife soon after had her hip replaced. Charlie went to stay, so as not to get in the way while she recovered. He never came home. He was there his last five years providing my MIL something to take care of, and keep her busy. That dog was WELL taken care of in his last few years.
Recently my SIL's mother passed and left an older cat. My MIL fostered the cat a couple weeks, and told the SIL she could stay with her. This is easier for her at 86, no walks required. She loves the cat, and loves the company.