Buddies make some of the most popular companions in Schmryptopia, but it's only recently that their medical value has been recognized. The calming effect they have on their trainers seems to stem from their unique body chemistry, and by refining those same chemicals scientists have been able to treat a wide variety of previously intractable conditions. They remain illegal in some jurisdictions due to the purported harmful effects they can have on productivity and health, but the movement to legalize owning and breeding them has gained steam in recent decades.