We just put our family dog down a few weeks ago.. is it too soon to adopt another dog?

Question

i adopted cassie over fourteen eyars ago... in the end cancer proved too much for her. i wouldn't look for another like her, since there is no one like her, but my 2 year old son keeps asking about "doggie"... there's a big void in the household

Answer 1

No, it's never too early. However, depending on the circumstance of why the family dog is put down, avoid adopting a similar looking dog.

Answer 2

The length of time depends on you and your family. We cant tell you when you can get another dog.

I am sorry for you loss, my boy left me in September and they do leave a big void. Its just not the same house without him.

I thought I would be ready by now to start looking at other dogs and a friend is going to get a companion of her own and looking at some of the refuges lately still gets me teary as I realise I am not ready to let another into my life/heart yet.

But like everyone else has said, remember this is a completely different dog and try not to compare the two. Your bound to though and think "oh i remember when she used to do that" or "she never did that" so maybe try not to get a dog to similiar in appearance as its bound to be different on the inside.

So yeah, in the end it really comes down to you and your family and whether or not your ready to let another dog into your home and hearts.

Answer 3

It doesn't sound like you're ready for a new dog in the household. Your son wants one, but do you? After our family dog died last December from cancerous tumors, my mom didn't get another dog until Easter Sunday this year. She's been very happy though. Sometimes moving onto something new is the best way to ease the pain. Getting a puppy might be just what you guys need:) It will dull the sadness when you bring a bouncy puppy into your life! Trust me! My husband just went off to war for 18 months and he bought me a dalmatian puppy to keep me company:)

Answer 4

Sorry for your loss. as to your question, only you can answer that one. are you really ready to adopt another dog right now? Know in your head and heart that you can never replace your last dog. The new dog will have a totally new personality etc. so know that it would be unfair to compare the two and expect the new baby to act and do the same as your last baby. When and if you do decide to adopt you should also have all new toys and blankets etc. for the new pup. Some "hand-me-downs" would be fine but be fair to your new addition.I can see there is alot of love to be shared in your home and should you decide to bring home a new pup then he will be loved deeply and should be loved as an individual. The best to you in any decision you make.

Answer 5

Only you can really answer that question. Some people need lots of time before they are ready for a new pet, and some are ready right away, and it can vary from one time to another.

Our 14 year old cat died about 2 months ago. I didn't intend to get another pet right away, but we came home from the vet that morning, sat around a bit feeling a big empty space, and went to the humane society that afternoon and found the greatest kitten just waiting for us. It was the right thing for us at that particular point in time. If you're feeling like it's the right time for your family to adopt another pet, go for it.

Answer 6

Well, there is no "set" answer. The mourning period depends on you and your family. I suggest holding a "family meeting" where you and your family can discuss how you're feeling about the death of the dog and the possibility of getting another. If you have very young children, merely talk to them about the old dog and try to get a feel as to where they are in the process and then gently engage discussion about getting a new dog and see how they react. Children are very honest, you'll know right away what to do by their reactions.

Answer 7

excellent advice!! especially the part about staying away from pet stores! if your family will be happy with a mixed breed dog, then please visit your local animal shelter or petfinders.com. if you have your heart set on a particular breed, i suggest a yahoo search for a breed club in your state. club members will be happy to help you find a reputable breeder or perhaps a dog of that breed who needs a new home. five of my eight corgis have been rescue/rehomes with joyous results. they have also looked very much alike but with such different personalities, comparisons were almost impossible except that they all shed and they all barked at the mailman but each was a new adventure! your family's heart will know the right time and right dog. good luck and small {hug} for your loss.

Answer 8

How long did you have the dog? And what does your family think? My advice is to talk with your loved ones and then decide...but also-dont try to replace the dog with one just like it you will end up disapointed and unhappy. Get a dog of a different breed or color and a completely different name. Then you wont constantly compare them. Also, Please get your pet from a shelter. Dont support puppy mills by going to a pet shop. Just search the web to see what I mean. You will never want to get an animal at a pet shop again.The animals in the shelters need us!

Answer 9

It really is up to you. Are you ready to bring a new dog into your life, without comparing it to Cassie? If you can honestly say that you are ready, then go ahead. If, however, you are going to get a new dog simply because your son wants one, then I would say do not get another dog... yet. You will know when you are ready for another dog. Only get a dog when you feel you are ready.

Answer 10

That would depend on a few things. The reason you put the dog down? Are you ready for another commitment so soon? Also remember that getting another dog is not going to replace the one that you had even if it is almost identicle.