Am I Ready to Love Again?

How to know when you're ready to welcome a new pet

After a pet dies, many people question when to get another pet. There is no right or wrong answer to that question.

Everyone grieves in their own way and time must be given to mourn the loss of the pet. For some people that might be days or weeks and for others, it might be longer. The stronger the relationship with the pet, the deeper the feeling of loss.

When you start to consider the possibility of opening your heart to another furry friend, make sure that you are ready. Don’t be pressured into getting a new puppy or kitten from a well intentioned friend or neighbor. Listen to your heart. It will let you know when you are ready.

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Questions and Suggestions for you and your family

Stop by an area shelter or rescue and take a look around

When you are visiting the animals, are you feeling mostly hopeful and happy? Or are you mostly sad? If the latter is true, you may need some more time.

Take your time in selecting the pet

Don’t let anyone pressure you into making a decision.

Make sure that all members of the family want to get a new pet

Everyone needs time to grieve in their own way and if a selection is made too quickly, some could be resentful.

Ask yourself why you want a new pet

Is it because you have a lot of love to give? This is a healthy response. Or are you getting a new pet to take away your grief? How fair is that to the new pet? If that is your reason, it would be best to wait and work on your grief before getting a new pet.

Don’t think that the new pet is going to replace your previous pet

The personality will not be the same just as no two people are the same. Don’t compare your new pet to your previous pet. You may not love the new pet as much, but you will still love it. Or you may find that you love the new pet more. There isn’t a right or wrong feeling when it comes to loving a pet.

Consider the needs of your surviving pets

It may take time for your current pet to adjust to the new one. You may want to consider a new pet before the loss of your previous one. In some cases, a young and active pet can revitalize an older animal.

If your pet died of a contagious illness

Make certain that your home is cleaned well before you bring in a new pet. Don’t forget to clean toys, bedding and rugs also.

The most important thing to remember

You need to give yourself time to mourn. If an insensitive person tells you that you are being silly to grieve over “just an animal”, look them straight in the eye and say “not to me”. Give yourself time to work through the pain and when the time is right, you will be able to open your heart to a new, well-chosen special friend.

A Dog's Last Will and Testament- Author Unknown

Before humans die, they write their last Will & Testament, and give their home and all they have to those they leave behind. If, with my paws, I could do the same, this is what I'd ask...

To a poor and lonely stray I'd give:

My happy home.

My bowl, cozy bed, soft pillows and all my toys.

The lap which I loved so much.

The hand that stroked my fur and the sweet voice which spoke my name.

I'd will to the sad scared shelter dog the place I had in my human's heart, of which there seemed no bounds.

So when I die please do not say, "I will never have a pet again, for the loss and pain is more than I can stand." Instead go find an unloved dog; one whose life has held no joy or hope and give MY place to him.

This is the only thing I can give...the love I left behind.