Death of a Pet

[KSUViolet06]

The grief process is different for everyone, so we can't really tell you if Christmas will be long enough for her. Losing a long time pet can be the same as losing a child or other human family member for some.

This is just me, but I would not bring in another dog without talking to her first. I would hate to surprise her with a dog that she isn't ready for and have her be upset (or feel like she's being pushed to "get over it").

[texas*princess]

Originally Posted by KSUViolet06

The grief process is different for everyone, so we can't really tell you if Christmas will be long enough for her. Losing a long time pet can be the same as losing a child or other human family member for some.

This is just me, but I would not bring in another dog without talking to her first. I would hate to surprise her with a dog that she isn't ready for and have her be upset (or feel like she's being pushed to "get over it").

Agreed that the decision should be a joint one.

My grandmother has had 2 dogs, both of which eventually passed away due to old age. Whenever I fly home with my dog she says she likes my dog and would like a smaller dog, but also says she will never get another one because the grief was just too much for her.

I really hope your mother is not blaming herself for the death of the dog... 14 years is a very long time and about the average for smaller breeds. The dog that passed away was probably just old

So sorry for your family's loss.

[MysticCat]

Originally Posted by KSUViolet06

This is just me, but I would not bring in another dog without talking to her first. I would hate to surprise her with a dog that she isn't ready for and have her be upset (or feel like she's being pushed to "get over it").

VA girl, my sympathies to your family. I've been the one to hold the dog while she died, and it was not easy.

Add me to the list of those who agree with the above. (And add me to the list of those who really don't like the idea of dogs as "surprise" presents.) The person who will be responsible for the dog should be the one who decides when and what dog. (BTW, it took 2 1/2 years, although part of that had to do with the kids being ready for the responsibility.)