How Do I Know If I'm Ready?

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.

My Darling Donnie

This is my first post. I wanted to share my love story. My sweet black Labrador was born on September 12, 2008. My husband brought him home when he was six weeks old. We were immediately inseparable. Every minute spent with him was an adventure! He was the sweetest funniest puppy I have ever had, and he grew into the kindest, most loving and wonderful dog I could ever hope for. I lost him to cancer on April 30, 2012. The saddest day of my life. I held him in my arms as he took his last breath and I felt my heart shattering. The sun has not shined the same for me since that day. My best friend no longer waits for me to come home at the end of the day. He isn't here to give me a hug when I am sad. No more cuddles, no more walks, no more handshakes. No more unconditional love for me. I feel so achingly lonely. I miss you so much Donnie. Sleep tight my angel