Thank You, Old Girl

[Kathy and Sam]

I recently lost my father in November and in December I lost my 15 year old dog, Misty Mae... The two losses entwined themselves in my grief.

The recent decision to bring a doodle pup into my life has perked me up but I am scared. I'm afraid of change. It hurts. It literally hurts. Many thoughts come into my head and heart. Will I groom properly? Do I have the energy? Will we bond?  

My Misty Mae was a shelter dog who required very little maintenance other than vet checks. We hiked a lot. We napped a lot. We sat together outside and meditated a lot. I miss her terribly, but am grateful for the comfort and joy she gave me for 15 years. I know she can never be replaced, and I do not want to replace her.  

I simply have decided to open my heart again to a new pup that will require ME to deal with change and grow!  

You were a great teacher, Misty, and I thank you, Old Girl.

Here is a wonderful link about old dogs that touched my heart today. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

http://offtheleashdogcartoons.com/scoops/old-dogs-gene-weingarten/

[Cheryl and Finnegan]

This is a moving tribute to your heart dog, Misty Mae and a beautiful photo of her. I don't know what can ease your losses but but I'm so glad that you've found the strength to welcome a new puppy into your life. Especially a doodle puppy because of their loving intuitive natures. It will be a challenge for sure to have a puppy again after so many years -- I had the same fears as you -- but the good news is, you can do it Kathy and you'll find wonderful times ahead and lots of support here. One little pup is going to be very lucky to have a new home with you.

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

I'm so sorry that you lost Misty Mae...she sounds so wonderful.  I'm also sorry that you lost your Dad....so much to handle all at once.  Wishing you lots of "puppy love".

[F, Calla & Luca]

What a lovely tribute to Misty. Good luck with your new pup.

[Marni and Hanna]

Nothing better than those old gray faces!!  Enjoy your new pup !!

[Laurie, Fudge, and Vern]

Also, it is a wonderful legacy to Misty Mae that you found such comfort in her that you want to start all over again. Dogs are great like that and teach us so much in life. I don't know if I could live without one. So sorry about the loss of your father too.

[Laurie, Fudge, and Vern]

Awww....I know how hard it is to lose a dog and especially such a special dog as Misty Mae. A puppy will certainly be a new change as they come with far more energy than an older dog, but I don't know what could be more invigorating than a puppy. It certainly will take time, energy, and training, but you will establish a routine with your pup, just like you did with Misty Mae, and find a new normal for both of you. In my opinion, it is so worth it. I am sorry you lost Misty Mae, but wish you lots of fun and love with your new pup.