New Puppy

[ULuvCeCe]

My sons father has decided he is ready to get a puppy. We put down his Dalmatian last April, she was almost 14 years old so it was extremely difficult. Any tips for if/when he breaks down and decides he's just not ready. How soon is too soon?  We have another dog but he has always associated that dog as mine so he does not have the same bonding that he did w/the dalmatian.

[aggie49]

i would say go get a puppy they can be very helping they give alot of love to there owners

[scollontrade]

If he has indicated that he is ready then get the puppy. I have lost many loving dogs over the years and a new loving puppy is the best medicine.

[CharmedPhoenix]

It's such an individual decision, but if he says he's ready go for it.  Try a rescue dog.  They appreciate being adopted and are extra devoted. 

[Tresbn00]

Your situation's difficulty is made so much worse because of the existing dog in your life.  Getting accustomed to another puppy will be hell for the current dog because puppies have no bounds to their energy, restraint and thinks that everyone wants to be its friend...which ultimately leads to a lack of respect for the life of your existing dog.  That said we had to put down our best friend two years ago and couldn't go without another dog for two weeks.  Thehouse was completely without a soul.  A year after we got the first puppy we went and got another puppy and now we are in constant episodes of laughter!

[ULuvCeCe]

Try a rescue dog.  They appreciate being adopted and are extra devoted. 

The dog that we consider mine is a rescue and I wouldn't have it any other way. I feel like he appreciates his life that much more b/c he went from one bad situation to a place where he is just spoiled.

With that said, we went to a no kill shelter and these were specific puppies a whole litter up for adoption that he wanted to see... they were all accounted for already. Which on one hand is great for the shelter but he was really set on seeing them. Maybe it was a blessing in disguise though. I strongly believe though when the time is right we'll find the right dog for him.