I had the same feelings of guilt after the loss of my 15 year old poodle. I was knocked for a loop when we had to put him down - more so than I thought I would be because we had known it would be soon. After about a week, I realized that I was just MEANT to have a lap baby. I felt so guilty even considering it but I talked to a really good friend who told me she had been the same way and had broken down and got a new pup. Never regretted it! Then I had a long talk with my vet who had taken care of Dax (my poodle) his whole life and he told me how good of a mommy I had been to Daxton and that any other pup, whether it was now or later, would be lucky to have me. He said that if thought I wasn't ready, he would say so but he gave his full "blessing". We got Tatum a week later. Although I miss Dax terribly, the love that Tatum has given has helped ease that grief so much.
And I agree with Karen.... your feelings are a tribute to how you feel for your angel baby.... no other dog will replace him in your heart and a true animal lover will not think that is what you are trying to do.
I say go for it!
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~ Angie |