I feel guilty even thinking about this, but the pain is so severe. She had a torn ACL and kidney failure. My other little Yorkie is so depressed over the loss of her buddy. We don't think about things like this when we are young and healthy. There is a hole in my heart big enough to drive a car through. My doctor said the way to help heal is to get another dog. Maybe he is right, but I miss my Gracie so much... What to do???
If you are physically and financially able, I would definitely see about getting another dog. If you're interested in a senior pup who needs some love, look up United Yorkie Rescue. They're a not-for-profit rescue who specializes in shutting down unsafe, abusive, and/or illegal breeding situations.
I had a friend who bought a replacement dog after one died, and it was the biggest mess you could imagine. The remaining dog and the newcomer didn't get along, both developed bad habits, and it was utter chaos in her house until the older dog died.
I'd give it some time and see if the two of you can be happy together before bringing in yet another dog.
Right now, it’s too early in the grief process to consider even fostering. It’s early in the process for your dog, too.
See how the two of you do for six weeks. You may well find that it’s mutually enough. If not, then you look at fostering.
Check with your local Shelter sometimes they do not want Foster pets in contact with the household pet. That could make things difficult for everybody (pup included in the everybody)
And a trip to the shelter just might be where you find "the one"
Oh, another thought...ask about Volunteering at the shelter. I am sure they can use the help and it might help you as well.
Follow your heart about getting another dog. Take time to grieve if you wish. Then, if you like, open your heart up to a lovely new pooch!
I know your doctor is right when it comes to not only cheering up the dog left behind, but it may save their health, and their life.
I had a german shepherd who was slowing at age 12, but lived to age 17 because of the new puppy, perking it up.
And a parakeet died flying in to a glass window, the second one died from sadness within a month.
It all depends on you and your preferences.
So sorry for the loss of your Yorkie, Gracie.
Get another dog.
Well, the entire dynamic of the family changed we were all happy once again.
I forgot how much patience a new puppy required, but I made it through as did Ziggy!
I am soon to be 76, and this little guy is a joy, If I kick the bucket my brother will take both Ziggy and Snickers (age 4),
I did search for a small dog to rescue but I couldn't find one. My Snickers is a rescued Shi Tzu,
I have found once you have 2, it's hard not to have 2!
This is it for me tho, I am just too old, Ziggy could live another 13 years, I would be 89! WoW! That is one scary thought.
Do what you think is best for you and your other dog!
My deepest condolences, but this is a chance to help other deserving dogs now.
If you were to get another dog, do you have someone who could take over their care, should something happen to you?
Are you in good health?
How is your mobility?
Can you provide the proper exercise a dog needs?
Do you have to negotiate stairs?
These are things that I would weigh, if I were considering a new pet.