Opinions on pup companions for older, not so healthy doodle?

[Sierra & Koko]

I got very lucky and adopted a perfect 6 yo doodle from the Humane Society a few years ago. This year I found out she has pretty significant liver disease and might not be with me too much longer. I am heart broken. In chatting with friends and family about this, most of them suggested I buy a pup from a breeder to keep us company and help me with the loss. Only one friend, recommended against it, saying it was unfair to my current dog. Does anyone have advice on this? Financially, and attention-wise I am able to do this. My current baby is probably a mostly poodle labdradoodle, she is 9 and prefers humans to other dogs, but apparently was living with another dog when she was surrendered (no incidents reported between the 2). Appreciate any advice. 

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

With all sympathy and compassion, I have to say that personally, I feel that it would be very unfair to your current dog to bring a puppy in at this point in her life. It would be extremely stressful for her, and no matter how hard you try to avoid it, it will also force you to turn a lot of your attention away from her at a time when she needs you more than ever. I think that your friends and family who are recommending this are thinking of you, not of your older dog. 

I am in somewhat of the same boat you are, and as tempted as I have been over the past year or two, I just couldn't do that to my current much loved dog. 

[Stella]

Totally agree with what Karen said. Puppies are rambunctious and take a lot of time and attention. This would, in my opinion, not be fair to your current dog. She deserves all of your time and attention.

[Sierra & Koko]

Thank you!! (To both you and Karen) I posted because I wanted opinions, so this is exactly what I needed to hear. I appreciate it! I've been leaning in that direction anyway, just wanted to throw it out to the interwebs for some confirmation.

[Stella]

It's always good to talk things out :)

[Sierra & Koko]

Thank you, I hope things go ok with you and your dog as well. 

[Laurie, Fudge, and Vern]

I came here to post these exact same sentiments, but see Karen already said it perfectly. Puppies take up so much time and energy and it sounds like your current dog is not that into other dogs. I wish you all the best and hope you can enjoy all the time you have left with your current dog. 

[Deanna & Desi & Cori]

You may want to start researching breeders now, making note of future planned litters at reputable breeders in your area. You may even put down a deposit if you find a breeder you really like. When the inevitable happens, you can start the puppy process relatively quickly.

We lost our Sedona slightly more than a year ago and, of course, we were devastated and overwhelmed by the silence in our house. We contacted a breeder who had recently had a person vacate her spot on the waitlist for a current litter. Even though we had to wait six more weeks to bring the new puppy home, just knowing he was on the way helped immensely with our grief.

I'm so sorry that you're having to go through this tough process.

[Sierra & Koko]

Thank you, its really tough. But I see the value in waiting things out. I'd rather give her the attentions she needs know, and I like your idea of making connections, but not doing anything until I'm really ready. Thanks!

[Linda, Charlie Brown and Beau]

I just saw your discussion. First of all, I am so sorry to hear Koko is having health issues.  We lost our standard poodle in 2010 and I can still remember how difficult it was to take care of our very sick boy.  I probably would not have been able to handle a puppy at the same time and I am pretty sure Wilbur (our poodle) would not have been able to tolerate any puppy let alone another dog in general.  As it turned out, the labradoodle puppy (Charlie) that was chosen for us happened to be born on the same day our standard poodle passed and I took that as an omen to get a puppy from that litter. My DH was not on board initially as we both process things slightly differently, but once Charlie came to us in 2011, he fell in love with him immediately.  We really needed him.  Only you and your family know what is best for you and you should not feel guilty one way or the other.  Enjoy your time with Koko.  I hope there is something they do to help her so she does not have to be uncomfortable.  Keep us posted.   

[DonMarie and Picco]

So sorry to hear about your Doodle, so young.   It's so hard to tell.  I have a friend who's dog just passed away last week who has been in pain for quite awhile.  There is a 1 yr dog also in the family that has been spending alot of time at boot camp (very hyper labradoodle) and whenever the labradoodle came back home the older dog was much happier to have her around.

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

I think people who might suggest you get a puppy are not looking at the reality of the situation.  We have gotten puppies when a dog has gotten older, but not one diagnosed with a terminal illness. I agree, like others have suggested, that it wouldn't be a good idea to get a puppy right now. I think the suggestion of 'preparing' to get a puppy is not out of line and not disrespectful  to your current love.

[Nan Y.]

Wondering if there are comfort or companion dogs that could visit, maybe oakland doodles? My 14 year old collie enjoys when the granddogs come over. Not that you need this now, but are there hospice groups for pets? Nan Y and Jeter