Family Tragedy

[Brandon McKinney]

My wife and I recently experienced a family tragedy. We unexpectedly lost our puppy during a horrible accident. Our labradoodle Mac would have been 5 months old today. We picked him up in late May and he immediately stole our hearts. Since we have no children yet we treated him as our first child and spoiled him as such.

This is absolutely heartbreaking to my wife and me. He was our first dog together as a married couple. He was a perfect match for us in every way. Everything from his shades of apricot, carmel, and cream to his temperament and high level of affection towards us. We are struggling to say the least. Especially my wife as he was her companion while I am gone working 24hr shifts at the Fire Department.

What has helped you in grieving the loss of a new puppy?

We understand that we cannot replace our Mac. Although we found that we loved the positive energy he brought into our lives and house. We are worried that we will not be able to find a dog with similar characteristics that we so greatly enjoyed in Mac. What has your experience been?

How soon did you get another dog? Is sooner and later better? Waiting lists for a well bred labradoodle seem to be long. Is it best to get on a list immediately even though we are still grieving? What happens if a puppy becomes available sooner than you expected?

We have so many feels and emotions we are not sure what's right or where to go from here. Any other general advice or suggestions you can offer?

Thanks,

Brandon & Kasey

[Robin and Libby Louise]

So sorry for your loss - no one will ever take Mac's place, and I think it's important to realize that another puppy will fill your hearts in different places than Mac did.  But fill you hearts he or she will!  As everyone else said, it's a very individual decision, but you will know when Mac sends someone to you!

[Shannon George]

Nothing speeds up the process but your heart will heal. As you consider the right time, also consider rescue as an option. idOg and DRC, doodle rescue collective are great resources for this and focus on doodle rescue. Knowing you saved one may just help soften the hurt a little...