Should I Get A New Puppy, How Soon Is Too Soon Options

[Darebaby]

I have really been pondering the idea of getting a new dog. It hasn't even been a week since I lost Pox, but I feel extremely lonely. I know that through all the hard times, Pox was always there for me. She was the one I leaned on and was who I cried on. She was also the one who I have shared many happy memories with. My boyfriend says it is a good idea...but to wait a month. I have felt so empty inside since she has been gone. I feel like I have no purpose. I had to quit all of my classes because I missed so much school this semester due to caring for my Poxy girl. I have been sleeping allllllll day long. Thinking about a new puppy has been the only thing to really light up my life (other than thinking bout Pox, of course). Frankly, I have nothing that is really driving me to get out of bed. I know depression is part of the grieving process...but a month feels like forever. I know this sounds like it is all about me...but I really think I need somebody to love....somebody tangible...huggable...and I would be such a great mommy to a puppy that needs one. What do you all think?

[beth4275]

Darebaby,

There is no set timetable for when you should or shouldn't get another dog. That is a decision that is intensely personal and only you (not your boyfriend ... you) will know when its time. Your boyfriend means well but you need to decide what is best for you because from my experience the grief will not be any less a month from now than it is today. I lost my Snoops over a year ago and I still miss him and cry over the loss (although not nearly as much as I used to).

From what you have written, it sounds like you are ready for another pup. I got not one but two puppies a week after losing my best friend in the whole world. Like you I was so depressed I could barely function and the emptiness in the house was so unbearable that I didn't even want to come home after work. For me, getting the puppies was the best thing that I could have done. It gave me a reason to come home and it gave me someone to take care of again and love again.

The only advice I can give you is that getting a new puppy will not replace your lost pup nor will it keep the sadness from happening. What a new little furbaby will do is fill up the emptiness in the house and he/she will help you to begin to function again (at least that was my experience). It also gave me a little furry guy to hold onto when the crying started which was a great comfort to me.

I think it is admirable that you want to share your life with another little furbaby. Wanting to share your love again is a testament to the relationship you had with your lost little one. What a great affirmation of all the things you shared and learned together that you want to share your love with another dog and I'm sure you lost little one would support that decision.

I wish you the best and please accept my deepest sympathy on your loss. Please keep us updated on your decision.

Hugs,
Beth