Hello:

I can't believe that it has only been 2 1/2 weeks since I had to make that horrible decision to let Winnie go, let her be free of her cancer. She was always such an active pup (she was part lab) and she kept the house hopping! It seems as if it has been months since I last saw her. I still expect to see her under foot in the kitchen, or checking in on me periodically when I would be busy around the house. I still expect her to hop up on my bed the minute I crawl under the covers and curl up on her "spot". I still expect her to join my Rita for the crazyness in the morning when my alarm would go off and it was time for them to head out for a pee break and then have breakfast.

I really can't think of her too much, as it is still so painful. I was in PetsMart over the weekend, and happened upon their section of memorial markers. I teared up and had to get out of there.

I didn't know that my Rita (14 years and going strong) was almost completely deaf. I thought that she had some hearing loss, and when she would not come when I called, I figured that she was just being stubborn...she always has been! Here, I realize just how much she got from Winnie. Winnie kept her going, giving her the cues that there was something to bark at, that I was home from work, that there was something to be excited about. Now that it is just Rita and me, the house is so quiet. She does not bark. She does not greet me at the door when I come home (she is usually still curled up on her chair in the den). While I am at home, Rita follows me everywhere...still. This is something new and different for her, and I understand why.

The dynamics are all off around here. There is such a void. No pup can ever replace my Winnie, but I need to have the emptyness filled.

Well, I met a 9 month old lab mix from a rescue agency, and in no time flat, I submitted my application for adoption. I have spoken with the supervisor and learned that I am one of two people being considered for her placement. I'll know if I have been chosen in a few more days.

I know where my heart is, but my friends think that I am horrible in doing this. I just wish that people could be more supportive. I have been reading a lot here about new little ones arriving during a time of pain and sadness.

Thanks for letting me ramble a bit.

Joe

Dear Joe,

I don't think you are terrible at all for wanting a puppy. This does not "replace" Winnie - it is just a new and different companion. I think it will help you get over the loss. Your Winnie would not want you to be sad or lonely I know. I think a new puppy would be great.

Like you I recently lost my baby Sasha (3 weeks now) and my other dog Skipper is really lonely. She sticks to me like glue and last weekend wanted to play with every dog she met. She is almost 13 so I am scared of losing her too. I am starting the search for a puppy. I am not going to get another Scottie since it is too close to my Sasha, but like you I need to fill the void and also think Skipper needs a new friend.

I hope you get the dog.

Nancy (Sasha's Mom)

Hi Joe, I hope that you are able to get the lab puppy that you are trying to get. I am so thankful to have my puppy Schnitzel she will never replace my Snookie but I love her a lot. When my husband took her to have her spayed the house was so quiet it was hard to deal with. I never knew until then just how much I love her. Winnie would be happy that you are getting a new baby and wont be so lonely. I wish you the best of luck and blessings.
Ann