28 years ago I bought a German Shepard for my young family. This pup turned into a family member who gave us more love and joy than we gave her, and we gave her allot. At 10 years old her hips got so bad I had to put her down. That day was one of those "I feel great days" for her. I took her to the park with her tennis ball. She chased the ball as though she was not in pain. I knew what was coming but she did not. I laughed with her when she would bring the ball to me. She was in Heaven playing this little game. We walked to the Veterinary as it was close to our park. I went in to get her a bowl of water and when I came back out she sat there, very still and proud. I set the bowl down for her to drink and as she was drinking I petted her telling her how much I loved her and how much of a good dog she is. When she finished we walked into the office waiting room and sat down. The assistant call for "Teela" and her ears perked and we went into the examining room. She loved this Dr. He petted her and talked softly to her as he slipped in the needle. I have tears streaming down my face as I try to cradle her the best I could. The first shot slowly put her to a deep sleep, the second one ended her life. I held her for a few minutes, trying not to cry more than I was.
I vowed to never get another dog, as this procedure would happen again.
Well nine months ago we got another female German Shepard, her name is "Cinna" and a few times I would call her Teela as Cinna looks and acts like Teela. For extra heat in our home I cut and split wood. Tella would always carry a piece of firewood into our home when I would go out and bring in a arm load. Cinna does the same thing.
I am glad I broke my promise not to get another dog.

Dear Lilac,
As I wrote that post, I could not see the keyboard at times. The pain/heartache is as real today as it was 18 years ago. I wrote that on my desktop computer and my family was in the other room, to which I was glad, as I didn't my wife/daughter/grandkids see me with my face all wet.
Our new pup is a kook and I am soaking up the goofy things she does to get my/our attention. On my days off I walk her across the street to our village park and throw her toy. She will bring it back to me, but first she likes to run past me so I can swat at her butt. Then she'll come back wanting me to throw again. It has been in the teens (5:00am) when we go out. I like the fact we go early as the park is empty and she can do whatever she wants to do.

Dear Lilac,
As I wrote that post, I could not see the keyboard at times. The pain/heartache is as real today as it was 18 years ago. I wrote that on my desktop computer and my family was in the other room, to which I was glad, as I didn't my wife/daughter/grandkids see me with my face all wet.
Our new pup is a kook and I am soaking up the goofy things she does to get my/our attention. On my days off I walk her across the street to our village park and throw her toy. She will bring it back to me, but first she likes to run past me so I can swat at her butt. Then she'll come back wanting me to throw again. It has been in the teens (5:00am) when we go out. I like the fact we go early as the park is empty and she can do whatever she wants to do.

Dear Lilac,
As I wrote that post, I could not see the keyboard at times. The pain/heartache is as real today as it was 18 years ago. I wrote that on my desktop computer and my family was in the other room, to which I was glad, as I didn't my wife/daughter/grandkids see me with my face all wet.
Our new pup is a kook and I am soaking up the goofy things she does to get my/our attention. On my days off I walk her across the street to our village park and throw her toy. She will bring it back to me, but first she likes to run past me so I can swat at her butt. Then she'll come back wanting me to throw again. It has been in the teens (5:00am) when we go out. I like the fact we go early as the park is empty and she can do whatever she wants to do.

May I quote the bottom line from BuddyLars messages, ""Happiness is all around...
Just waiting to be found."
BuddyLars."
There is much truth in that statement, and another little brown-eyed miracle worker might be the answer for you.
Just my humble opinion and no intention at all to intrude.
John

Like you I swore I would never own another dog after have to having to have my last one put down. Well, I lied. After my wife passed away this house got very lonely so I got a chocklate Lab from the shelter in town. It was one of the best thing I ever did! She is extreemly lovable and a great companion!

Jim D

Jim, Sorry for your loss. The dog will give you great joy and replace some of the quiet in the house, and will not give you a moments peace. She will keep you moving and give you all the unconditional love you need!!