Loss Of An Old Friend

[Chipchopper]

After a long struggle with vestibular syndrome, my old dog died yesterday and the place just don't seem the same without him and I miss him dearly.

He was a gsd x and in time, I may start looking for another, so what are the key things to look out for when homing a new dog ?

Tia...

[wolf63]

Firstly remember that some people want to get another dog as soon as possible and some leave it a year or so (or longer).

Think about what you want from your dog - energetic? good with kids? and anything else that you consider to be important.

Both of my dogs were GSD crosses. One that we got as a puppy and one that I got from the dog pound when he was five.

it is horrible when a furry friend dies x

[mikey4444]

I wouldn't lose a minute getting another dog. My Yorkie is on his way out, and I will replace him ASAP after his time has come.

I have been supporting the Dogs Trust for a few years now, and I would suggest that you give them a ring......they will bite your hand off if you offer to take one of their bundles of fun !

[woofgang]

I am sorry for your loss chipchopper. I agree, decide what you want the dog to be like, what you are prepared to work on and what would be a dealbreaker...thew rescue should ask you this anyway but I understand that sometimes that doesn’t happen. Just for info Mikey, we went to a big local rescue a few years ago to enquire about rehoming and were told firmly that the did not rehome during the month of december “because the dogs often had trouble with noisy christmas celebrations” In vain did we explain that we never did that and had especially planned to have long holidays (I worked half time usually) and no visitors....we were refused :(

[ladybirder]

Sorry to hear you've lost your dear old friend chipchopper. It's very hard I know. I hope you find another dog soon, there are plenty (too many) out there in shelters waiting for someone like you. Do let us know when you get another, it'll probably choose you when the time comes.

[paddywak]

Sorry to hear your news CC,they do leave a big hole in your life when they go.Hope you find a new friend soon.

[murraymints]

oh dear so sorry ..it is heartbreaking to lose a much loved pet..xx

[marval]

I am sorry to hear of your loss Chipchopper. You will know when the time is right to get a new friend.

[Tilly2]

Chip, I am sorry to hear your news. They leave such a void in your life when they have gone.

I would say that the key things to consider are these:-

Have you got the time to spend with the dog?
Have you got the energy and space to exercise your, presumably much younger,dog?
Have got the patience and the skills to train it?
Have you considered what breed you would prefer to fit in with your lifestyle? Can you still manage a big dog or would a smaller one be more suitable
Have you got a hole in your heart that needs filling?
Have you got enough dog biscuits?

If the answer to all of these is ...yes...then go for it. Let the dog choose you.

[Patsy33]

I feel for you Chipchopper. I think you need a little time at least to grieve for your old chum. Then only you know when the time is right for bringing another furry friend into your life.x

[CatGirl4]

I know just how you feel,on my 80th birthday,my Tana died. I had had her for just over eighteen and a half years,so she had to be at least nineteen,she was a rescue,all my cats have been rescues. I keep saying that she will be my last one but,it's SO lonely without a cat. Take your time Chipchopper before deciding.x

[lankeela]

Very sad, but wonderful memories. I have just been involved in bringing a dog over from a dreadful public shelter in Romania, he is with GSD Rescue UK and will need a home once he has been assessed.