I have been told that Jack Russells aren't very affectionate, that they aren't a "come here" type of dog. Somebody is sadly mistaken!
Fancy has become a very loving, hold me, love me, pet me little friend! And, yes, she is still very independent, and VERY stubborn when "on the trail" of mice, rabbits, snakes, various "boogers" that haunt my rural home. But, at the same time. she greets me every day when I get home, comes to me when I call her, and gives me a little sideways look before she settles down for a long snooze in my lap.
She doesn't do the frantic little "stand on one eyeball and whistle Dixie" dances that my beloved chihuahua Bitsy would do, but she does show me affection. While I will never fully get over the pain of losing Bitsy, Fancy does find ways of easing that pain. I can finally hold Fancy in my lap while gazing at Bitsy's photo next to my chair without feeling guilty. I understand now why James Herriot always counselled his clients not to wait about getting another dog after losing a loved one! It is not to "replace" the loved pet, but to be able to share the love that you have for your little lost one with another of God's little gifts! The new pet, in turn, helps you to be able to deal with your loss!
I would advise anyone that has lost a loved little friend, that it is OK to have another one. I can't advise getting another pet immediately, as this would not be appropriate for everyone. I would say that it would not be OK to say that "I will never...".
Love to all on these posts, and may we all continue to share our love with the wonderful creatures that God has allowed us to "partner" with in our journey through our lives!
Andy