I never had a dog until I was an adult. I did not realize I was an intense dog lover.

When my dog died she was 12 which was a fairly ripe old age. I heard that her breed lived long lives so I expected her to live to be about 18.

She died suddenly, without pain, I think probably a heart attack. Again, no long agonizing illness. A blessing.

However, I was not prepared for how traumatized I felt. It has been five years and I still have no desire to ever have another dog. I can't even talk about my dog. She was so special and I loved every single moment of her existence. Everyone loved her. She spread joy every moment of her life.

I really don't understand how people get another dog a few months (or even weeks) after a beloved pet dies.