My husband and I leave the house early. We have a dog and a cat, both super friendly. Our son, who is 8, is a relaxed, independent boy who loves reading, playing sports, and art.
All that is required it to keep our son company. He is very independent and will have his lunch and backpack prepared on his own. You can read with him, play board games, or do anything else you'd like before bringing him to the bus stop (2 houses away.)