Missing Our Baby Options

[dakota28]

In april we lost our 11 yr old shihtzu to cancer. It was devastating to my husband and I. This week was a very bad week and without her our problems seem worse. She was always there for us and never let us be sad for very long. I've read this board and agree with alot. Should we get another dog and are we ready. Our grief seemed overwhelming this week. We have no children - she was our child. Would we unfairly compare another dog. To us she could do no wrong. I am hoping to find some comfort in this board.

[Gort]

I think you've come to the right place for comforting. We're all dealing with the same issues and pain. I'm sorry to hear about your buddy. What was your ~~htzu's name?

I can't really give you advice on getting a new puppy. That is something that you and your husband will have to figure out when and if the time is right. My dog, Ava, has only been gone a little over a week and I know I am not ready for a new pup or kitty yet. When I lost my dog previous to Ava, I waited almost 5 years before getting another. Even when I got Ava, I hadn't really planned on getting a new dog. Ava was abandoned in my little town and I rescued her from being put down by the police. She wound up being the best dog I ever had and a long time companion. I had her for 15 years and now she is gone. I miss her dearly.

If and when you get a new companion, it will never replace your shihtzu. It's impossible to replace your buddy. Any new pup is going to have it's own personality traits even if it's the same breed and markings. Take your time on the decision. It's a difficult one to make, I know.