How Do I Know If I'm Ready?, i miss being a mommy Options

[DonniesMom]

I have posted in the Death and Dying forum about the loss of my beloved Labrador, Donnie. His death has left me heartbroken. Well it has been nearly 5 months since my baby passed away, and during that time I did some dog sitting for a friend of mine. So I had 2 boxers living with me for about 6 weeks. The male dog was a total sweetheart, and reminded us (my husband and I) of Donnie very much. Having him and his sister here for that time helped me heal quite a bit I think. I still miss Donnie terribly, but i really enjoyed taking care of them, and playing with then, and giving and receiving affection. Since they have moved back home with their owner, I have been feeling very lonely, and my husband i have been discussing adopting a new furbaby. How do i know if the time is really right? I know i haven't moved on since losing Donnie, and I'm not sure if i ever will, honestly. I have adjusted to life without him but my heart still aches very much. I miss being a mom to a dog. I have my cat Damien, who i adore, but I am a bit more of a dog person, maybe because dogs seem to be more dependent on me than cats do, and i really enjoy taking care of dogs. I feel badly for saying that, i love my kitty very much but its just how i feel. Damien seemed to enjoy having the dogs here too. I know he misses Donnie, they were the best of friends. How do I know if I am ready to have another dog? I know I will never replace my baby but I feel like I should open my heart again.

[DonniesMom]

I just wanted to post an update on my little family. We have had Hershey for 6 weeks now, and he had been such a blessing. He is a year and a half old, and spent half of his life in the shelter. He started off very unsure of himself, and very nervous around people. We have been showering him with love and hugs and treats and anything else he might need, and he has come out of his shell so much. He is still a shy little boy but he is much more comfortable now. He and I are pretty much inseparable. He and Damien quickly became best buddies. Damien sleeps in Hershey's bed with him, and they even share each others toys. All in all its been a joy having him. I still truly feel as though a little part of my heart will always be missing. Donnie took it with him when he had to leave me. I still have moments when I feel overwhelmed with grief for him. But i am so glad i decided to open my heart again. Hershey is helping me live, instead of just breathing in and out while the days pass. I love him so much. I never thought i would feel that way again. I am truly blessed to have my little family. I hope everyone out there is having a peaceful evening.
Much love, Donnie, Damien and Hershey's Mom