Getting Another Pet When You've Just Lost One

It really depends every one has there own time, I just lost my cat gizmo 3 months ago, he was 3 and had FIV and a tumor in his spine and brain, and it was devistating, my husband swore we were not getting another one. However the more time goes on the more you want companionship we toy back and forth weather a cat is a good idea, for fear of replacing him, but you never can do that. You only add to your companionship of life, and you will feel it when you are ready, but unfortunately grieving is just part of the companionship. When you as a couple both feel ready walk into a shelter with an open mind, trust me you will never forget your beloved pet, it is hard, but you do things to continue to share your memories. To help my with gizmo I still hung his stocking up, and this year we bought a pair of angle wings which happened to be broken, but it felt right, cause at the end, his legs stopped, so it was meant to be, and even though you'll probably cry to do it, you will still feel a sense of good and know they are still right there with you each day. Best of luck when the time comes.

I am guessing that it depends on the person. A few weeks ago, I lost my Japanese Chin mix from the Humane Society that I had only had since February. I had to put her to sleep one Monday morning before school because she was in so much pain from a brain tumor. So sad... That night I brought home a purebred chihuahua and she is great. This new puppy (nellie) helped me cope with my loss.

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I am still working on the house training with her though.

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She is getting better though.

It depends on the person and how they cope. Some people cope better when they have another pet to focus on. Others feel guilty if they get another pet too soon. It is an individual decision and only you and your wife can make it. I have actually done it both ways, but I usually don't wait too long before getting another one. I actually have 4 dogs now, so I have multiple animals anyways. Good luck on deciding on another pet.

I think it depends on the person. Many people come to our shelter after they have lost a pet and some seem ready right away. Some people realize that they just aren't ready and need to come back at a later time. I think it is great to adopt as long as you realize that even if the pet is a "copy" of the one you lost - the pet may be completely different than the one you lost.

There really is no right answer to this question. It really varies from person to person and when they feel it is right to get a new pet for them.

I personally feel that having a quiet house is just twisting the knife even more, so I like to get new pets right away. It helps get my mind of the death by preoccupying myself with the needs of the new pet. Of course you can't replace those that have passed, but I find it best to open my heart and home whenever I can.