My darling little dog Jess

[kallis3]

I do have to disagree there Mel. We have always had another dog straightaway and we have always loved them equally. We've never forgotten the ones who have passed, and still talk about them.

However, I know some people do need to leave things a while before choosing another member of the family.

You will certainly love Topsy as she is so tiny.

[Skippy]

I'm smuggling Topsy home from FF in my bag!

Seriously, it's difficult to know when's the right time to get another dog. When Cindy was put to sleep my mum got Blaze a few weeks later and at first she couldn't take to her. It didn't take long for the big, black teddy bear to have mum wrapped around her very big paw though, and now she can't imagine life without her.

I know it's different for me as I don't have a dog, but I can't imagine not having Harry around. Dave said to me the other day that I've changed for the better since we got him as I'm calmer now. Even though cats are more independent than dogs, I know Harry depends on me and for everything I do for him I get it back tenfold in love and companionship.

[kallis3]

I've always been a very big softy where animals are concerned.

Skip, you will have to fight Mel for Topsy I think!

[Skippy]

OK, I'll have Lloyd then - will he fit in my bag?!?

I'm not particularly soft where humans are concerned, but when it comes to animals I'm a soft touch and they know it as the cat on holiday proved.

[kallis3]

You'll need a decent size bag Skip!

Seriously, I've always been a soft touch where animals; particularly dogs, are concerned. I'd have a houseful of them.

[Skippy]

If I bring my suitcase you'd better check for Lloyd when I leave!

I'd be the same with cats Jan, I have a houseful if I could.

[kallis3]

[:D][:D][:D]

Can you stand his constant barking?[:D]

[scirocco]

I've just read this M, and I know how difficult a decision that is. It really feels the lonliest time, but it's also the most loving and kindest thing that one can do under circumstances.

I love people, but I love my dogs in a completely different way. I love people with my heart, I love my dogs with the fabric of my soul. It sounds a bit cooky, but I'm quite normal, or at least I think I am LOL.

Jess will never leave you. The special ones never do as they have already left something with you that can't be erased. They have taught us restraint, patience, compassion and humility. Mine have also brought to me, soaring joy, deepest sorrow, laughter and tears. The list goes on.....

Deep in my secret place, I still play with, and talk to my bestest friends.

I wouldn't go and purposely search for another as others can often never match up.

Don't close your heart to one though, as sometime soon one will pick you out. You won't really have a say in that, it just happens that way.

I wish you all the luck with finding your new soulmate.

[kallis3]

What a lovely post Dave, and so true. I miss all my dogs, even though I have new ones now.

[Skippy]

That's so true Dave, and I would say that it's true about all animals. All the pets I've had have left their mark and I miss them all.

[kallis3]

All pets have their own personalities, the same as we do. We miss them all.

[Julie]

Awww Melanie, I have only just seen this..I am so very sorry that Jess has said goodbye for now. I hope through the tears you can remember the love, joy and happiness you all shared.

Love to you all xx

[MelanieGiles]

Thanks to all of you, and to Dave for such a lovely post it has made me cry all over again but in a strangely happy way. You have summed up exactly how I feel right now, and I am really comforted by the support of all of you. This forum is truly amazing.

[kallis3]

We all know what you are going through Mel, hubby and I were nearly in tears this afternoon discussing our dear departed ones.

[Jan01]

When it comes to getting new pets I think you know when the time is right for you, although we have had dogs at the moment we have 2 cas and a parrot. When we have lost cats in the past I know when the time is right to get a new one is when I am looking at the kitten food in the supermarket and wishing I was buyng some. This happens no matter how many times I say when the cats go we won't relace them (not that you can)

Jan