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

[samhaincat]

Hi Nicolle,
How awful losing your dog just such a short time ago and over the holidays no less.

I think everyone has a different time frame required, some people can within a short while bring another animal to love into their lives, and for them it works really well. Personally I envy them because I know from experience I am unable to do that.

I find that I need more time. My two old girl, Spicey died Aug. 17th and Nymph died Sept. 23rd are still missed so much in my household. I went to the local SPCA just before Christmas and there were lots of sweet kitties but I realized that I wasn't ready yet...something inside of me still feels so loyal to their memories that I'm just not ready yet to let someone new to love in. I felt horrible walking out again but I knew it was too soon for me. But that being said there were a few that I really liked so I will go back in a few weeks again and keep doing that until I feel ready and then whatever kitties are still around or will come in new, might just be the ones I'm fated to love.

two and half years ago when I lost my beloved Zody I got a kitten four months after his death, it was WAY too soon and he was so opposite my beloved Zody it took me a long while to feel like I hadn't make a mistake in getting him. I've had him for two years and I adore him and couldn't imagine my home without him anymore - but if I had to do it over again I wouldn't have gotten him when I did-because it wasn't fair to him to not be loved fully and enthusiastically right from the beginning.

Do whatever feels right for you. It won't hurt to go and have a look and see if there are any dogs that you feel an immediate connection to - you might be one of the lucky ones who can love again - I totally agree with one of the other people who responded, it is a wonderful tribute to your lost love one to be able to share that love with another animal.
best of luck to you and I hope your New Year is filled with happiness.