I had this problem years ago when my horse died. The one thing in the world I did NOT want was another horse. I couldn't open myself up to the possibility of getting hurt that badly again. But you need to think about all the good things that come out of connecting yourself with an animal. Think of all the good times you had with Bandit and think about what your life would be like without that connection.
I listened to Garth Brook's song, The Dance, a LOT after I lost my horse. It hurt like crazy but I wouldn't have given up my time with her for anything. And if you close yourself to the relationship you're going to have with Tucker (I'm naming my little guy Tucker and I pick him up on Saturday, too!!!), you'll be worse off. Love him--he needs it! And I know you need it, too.
We can raise our Tucker's together!! It's gonna be GREAT!
