How soon is too soon... or how long to wait?

[Jeff in Ottawa]

It's been just over a month since we lost White. Almost from the day he crossed the Bridge we have been remarking about how odd it is that the house is so quiet. We are definitely going to get another dog, probably a Newf, but we are a little concerned about how soon is too soon. We don't want to get into a sort of rebound-type situation. Does anyone have any thoughts or experience with this?

 

[AngusMcDubhsMom]

It was less than a month after we lost our first Newf, AngusMcDubh when my breeder offered me her 4 yr. old Maneen. I too was anxious about taking him, thinking I might expect him to be Angus all over again. That dog wormed his way into my heart so fast! I had to remind myself he was a different dog at times, but he was the epitome of joy and we loved him beyond all measure. I can't tell you what to do of course, but he was a blessing for us and helped us heal.
Other friends got a rescued Newf just weeks after losing their 11 yr old boy and they love the new boy just as much, if not more...it has been 4 yrs now they've had him. Go with you instincts.

 

[Leonard and his bud Snuffles]

No advice here, but will be interested in what others say. Snuffles being our first ever dog, I to wonder. My life is so much in being with and caring for him, I am afraid of the sudden big void.

 

[victoria1140]

When l lost Beau l already had Max lined up for us .

If Maxs tests are positive for what we fear then l know of an accidental litter of puppies we are considering.though l would be overjoyed if we didnt have to have one.
.

Its not a replacement just an alternative.

 

[Murphy]

Listen to your heart.. Different for everyone I suspect... I personally feel you guys have the capacity to love another sooner than later.. But again... no one can tell you when it is right or wrong..

On another note.. spoke to Jane today.. Bear is looking forward to seeing Uncle Jeff at Newfstock..

 

[speaker]

I don't think there is a specific "too soon". Once you've accepted that a new member of the family isn't replacing a past member, then you've probably moved on enough with the grieving process.

 

[nowhavethreebears]

It's been a little less than a month since Sophie left me....and I am looking. Nothing lined up yet, but I miss her so much there is just a big gaping hole where she used to be.....

 

[victoria1140]

Also just to say be prepared for conflicting feelings.

I love max but beau was my heart and soul dog.l used to feel guilty l didnt love max as much as l did beau.

He is an alternative as no one can replace the one you lost.doesnt make them any more special or cared for its just different.

 

[Newfs Forever]

Good thoughts from everyone here.

The only thing I can say is you just have to follow your gut! I mean that sincerely. It may take months, weeks, days or a year or more.

You will know when it feels right, when everything seems to fall into place. That to me is the important equation.

Good luck and I wish you the best!

 

[Jeannie]

I'd say there is no set time. Just when you feel it is time. Anytime I have lost a dog I had more to come home to so I've never had the 'last dog' situation. I cannot see my home with out a dog so I'd probably be searching right away. Remember you are getting another dog not a replacement dog.

 

[Sound Bay Newfs]

You have to trust your heart and do what is right for you. Just the fact that you are thinking about it now, might indicate it is time to move on and accept another into your home.

 

[Angela]

You will know when it is the right time

 

[MC Sullivan]

For me, its not about moving on, but more when my heart is ready to love another. Grief is natural. You'll know when its right for you.

 

[DAWNMERIE]

Love holds no boundaries, if your heart needs, wants and is willing....follow it XXOO

 

[KS Newf]

Whenever your inside voice tells you it is right. Your next-furry friend will be very lucky indeed!

 

[Pregreen]

I'm one of those that doesn't wait long. I rescue another rather quickly to honor the friend I've lost.

 

[Brandie&Maggie]

Only you will know when the time is right...If you are thinking about it, perhaps that is a sign that you're there, or getting close. You are not replacing the ones that are gone. You're making room for another friend.

I've never waiting more than a few weeks or a month to get another cat when I've lost one - just long enough to find the right one. I just couldn't have a house without one. (Maggie is my first dog.)

 

[dreamchaser456]

There is no too soon or too long that's set in stone. I have waited a long time and I have also waited less than a week. For me, every time it's been more that I have "found" the right new pet, a look in their eyes, a need they had, a tug on a shoelace. There was always some little sign that told me this dog needed be mine.
This time I have actually found that new one before the old one passed (I was NOT looking) bit I just knew that our boy was supposed to be here.
Your heart will tell you when it's the right time for you... follow it! You're the only one who will know when it's the right time to grow you heart with another.

 

[jane]

When my first boy passed, only at the age of 2, I knew I couldn't be without a newf. I had another less than a year later. When I knew my 2nd boy was going to pass, I already had a breeder in mind. I find it very hard when one of our special babies passes. Now I make sure I always have at least 3 dogs at a time...

 

[mrsnamsherf]

After I lost my previous dog, I decided to wait awhile before getting another. But after five or six weeks had gone by, I couldn't stand my empty house, and I got my Newf, Sam. Sam filled a lot of the holes Mac left-someone to hang out with all day, a walking buddy, a greeter when you get home... It worked out very well.

Marie