I agree Gem. I've been thinking quite some time now about getting another dog. My vet thought it would be a good thing to do for my older dog who is 12 now. I know I have an upcoming vacation and I had debated about whether to get it now or later after the vacation. I decided later so I could devote my time to finding the right dog for my family. I have to find a really docile one. Because Heidi is so easy going in her older age. She's been the little queen of the house. She did great when we had Jorgie here.. but he knew she was the queen lol. I love animals. They bring such joy and happiness to our lives. You just have to make sure you know what your getting into when you get that pet and are willing to be there and devoted to it for its life. Its no different than having a baby. They just want your love, time and to be played with. It makes me sad too to see all the animals who dont have someone to love them like they deserve to be.