When Is It Right To Get A New Pet? Options

[MissingRuby]

My Ruby has been gone now for 6 days. My 4 year old daughter wants a new dog like now. She is an only child and our Ruby was her companion and "dog sister". We were thinking about adopting a dog from a shelter instead of buying another pure bred dog. What is everyone's thoughts on this?

Also, Thanks for the support. I did have another bad night last night but this board is truly helping me. -Nicolle

[howzerdo]

Nicolle,
I agree with the above posters, the decision to get another pet is personal and individual. In my case, I don't wait very long - the shortest was one week, the longest, about six weeks after the death. For the past 20 years, I have had more than one pet at a time - currently two dogs and a cat. My beloved dog died 3 months ago, and although I am still quite sad over the loss, I have adopted a puppy from the shelter. He hasn't erased the grief I feel - just as his dear departed predecessor didn't eliminate the grief I felt at that time, 10 years ago, but this puppy was there, unwanted, in a cage, waiting for a home - and I am glad that home is with me. I haven't had any trouble finding a place for him in my heart, and the smiles (and even the occasional frustrations over his mischievous baby antics) he brings me every day are priceless. I do think shelter pets are wonderful, all of my pets have come from the shelter except one (who I found as a stray in the street), although again, that is a personal choice. But don't feel guilty. I read this quote somewhere that seems true "the greatest tribute it to get another dog."
Take Care - Gina