Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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(Not quite sure the best forum to post this in - so admins, feel free to shift it!)
It's only been a very short time since Peda left for the bridge.
Before Peda left I spent some time thinking about life without her. Friends asked (somewhat awkwardly) if I would get another dog. Of course I would get another dog ... at some stage ... but I really didn't know when that would be. I tended to think that it was likely that it would be quite a long time.
Over the last week and a bit, I've realised quite strongly, that I 'need' a dog in my life. I need 'dog loves' but I also need to love a dog. I am struggling somewhat with this realisation because I honestly thought it would be a long time before I would contemplate having a new dog come in to my life.
Peda's sister, Neo, has moved house to live with her pawrent. Peda and Neo grew up together and we kept them together even though her pawrent moved to another house a few years ago (that was partly because other dogs were already in the house and they wouldn't have accepted her). When Peda was diagnosed last year everyone thought it best for both to stay together. So now - the house has no dogs 
On Thursday I am flying across the country to meet with a breeder (and also to just get away for a few days as I think it'll be good to be away from home). It all came about a bit unexpectedly. I made an enquiry thinking it would be months or even years before a puppy would be available. I had been thinking about looking for a rescue dog also - and so really I was just throwing out ideas - not really thinking anything would come up for ages.
I have no desire to bring just 'any dog' in to my life ... it will have to be a dog I feel a connection to. And it may be years before that happens ... I'm just bewildered and surprised that I have begun to feel that I 'need' it now. And it isn't about 'replacing' Peda - that will never happen. But it is about feeling that void of dog energy ...
So - how have others tackled this? I understand it is a completely individual decision ... but I'm interested in other peoples experiences and thoughts.
Kirsty
My day revolves around my hounds. Without them its just work, sleep and chores.
Today we're going to the swimming hole. Without the hounds I would have no reason to go there.
I hate to sound preachy, but I honestly think a dog from the pound really gives more back than from a breeder. A pound puppy knows loneliness.
But any hound is better than no hound 
Kristy, you've articulated everything with such a beautiful sensibility...like you always do.
Just let "it" flow....follow the synchronized events that are seemingly random ( you probably already sense Peda has a well laid out plan she's put into motion)
Your heart will take over the "decision making" process and will take care of the details (under Peda's direction of course-------can't wait to see a photo of who she's pickedout for you!)
For me, I've always had a family of dogs and have never been left with the total silent loveless emptiness of not having a dog by my side.....nor would I find any jmy in existing if that were the case. Eventual though-usual sooner than later------another dog is "sent" to my by some doggy divine. retention! But NO, I could never be without a dog for very LNG!
For me, I would want to make sure that my heart is more focused on the happy memories rather than brinng a dog into the grief energy
I do believe any of our dog family that passes would not want us to experience life without a dog! They would feel like they failed if we didn't want another n' and it would hurt their feelings! Yep, that's my 2¢!
It will be I teresti g to see what color Peda has picked out for you!
Ohhhhh nooooo Sweet Kristy....this isn't a "decision" about ONE dog!! Peda's already told the "rescue dog" she's going to new home soon to join you and her other selection she sent you!
Lots and lots of love and hugs to you!
Sally and Happy Hannah
Happy Hannah had a glorious additional bonus time of over one yr & two months after amp for osteo! She made me laugh everyday! Joined April's Angels after send off meal of steak, ice cream, M&Ms & deer poop!
The time is different for everyone. When I lost my Barney dog back in 2005 the house was sooo quiet. I had four cats at the time but it's not the same. I didn't hear those toenails clicking on the hardwood. No begging at dinner time. No barking at every squirrel, bird or leaving blowing by out the front window.
For me it took 10 days! I went and adopted the girl I have now only 10 days after losing Barney.
Marla and Daisy
My Two Tripawds...Biscuit 
and Spirit Daisy 
I have to agree, everyone is different. My people waited almost a year till crazy Wyatt Ray came along. But my Momma would have adopted a dog sooner, she can relate to what you said about needing dog energy in the house. It was my Dad that wanted to wait.
If you have the ability to open your heart up to another dog, and you are confident that you're ready, then you are.
Good luck with the trip, let us know if you bring home a new family member!
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
It really is different for every pet owner and there is no right or wrong answer.
As you mentioned, the biggest thing people have a problem with is that they feel like if they get a new dog soon after their dog passes away that they will be "replacing" their old dog. This is absolutely not the case. Every dog is so incredibly different, and having a new dog will never make you love your previous dog any less. You just have to do what feels right to you. If you meet a dog and you feel a special connection, then you will know it is time.
Kristy,
You already answered your own question. You said its not about replacing Peda (because we all know that doesn't happen) its about needing the dog and the love a dog (family member) gives you. Its kinda like Christine & Franklin. They have Wilson. Not to replace Franklin but to bring Joy back into their lives.
When you see the right puppy you will know. Peda will send him or her to you.
Hugs
Michelle & Sassy
Sassy is a proud member of the Winter Warriors. Live long, & strong Winter Warriors.
sassysugarbear.tripawds.com
07/26/2006 - Sassy earned her wings 08/20/2013
05/04/2006 - Bosch, Sassy's pal, earned his wings 03/29/19 fought cancer for 4 months.
"You aren't doing it TO her, you are doing it FOR her. Give her a chance at life."
I am the type that needs that new puppy sooner rather than later. I think puppy breath is a drug that helps my heart heal
. On the other hand, my sister always waits about six months. You'll know what feels right for you.
Thinking of you.
Luanne and Shooter
Spirit Shooter was a Miniature Australian Shepherd who was diagnosed with a MCT and had a LF amp 1/28/13 at 13-1/2 years old.
Shooter crossed the Bridge on 8/28/13, his 7 month ampuversary and two weeks from his 14th birthday.
I agree with everyone here. It takes some time to heal but sometimes puppy kisses can be healing kisses.
I personally always adopt, but I'm not one of those rescue people who condemn you if you buy from a breeder.. just be sure it is a reputable breeder so that you have a healthy pup come home with you instead of one with potential hereditary medical issues. There are sometimes purebred puppies up for adoption too. Check local breed-specific organizations in your area or browse http://www.petfinder.com
I've posted this before in the forums, but it really really sums up my feelings on the subject. I even have a copy hanging in my office..
Barret was diagnosed with Hemangiopericytoma May 16, 2013. Front left leg/scapula/pectoral muscle was amputated on June 11, 2013 and we've never looked back. Follow our story on http://barret.t.....pawds.com/ and read my column on That Pet Blog
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