My rescue pug Lola passed away in march of this year. She had a condition called NME (necrotising meningoencephalitis) that caused her immune system to attack and kill her brain. She started showing symptoms a few days before her 4th birthday and thanks to the quick action of her vet getting her referred to a neurologist we managed to control it for just over a year before she quietly relapsed and it became clear that it just wasn't right to carry it on. She was 5.
At the time I swore I would never have another dog. Ever. She was it for me. I adored her. Another dog would feel like a replacement and there was no replacing Lola. But as time has gone on I have softened to the idea (as has the husband) and it's become quite clear that I am one of those people who 'needs' a dog in their life. I don't feel right without one. I could never get another pug, I would spend the whole time terrified it would happen again. But another little dog? Yes, I could see myself with another little dog.
So tell me, how did you move on when you lost the doggy love of your life? Did you do it straight away? Or wait a while? I would just like to know that I'm not alone in feeling like this. She set up camp in my heart and there will always be a pug shaped hole in it.
(I have included a picture, because she was gorgeous)