I was grateful we still had a dog at home when Hector died as although his presence was greatly missed we were still going through the usual routine with Throp which made it easier to bear. We had actually discussed the same day that we may need to get a friend for Throp if he didn't cope well with being a singleton, but as it was he's managed fine. Its been 2 months now, but being sensible need to wait until health & finance issues improve, otherwise i think we'd of already tested the water at the rescue kennels as i think we'd all like to return to being a 2 dog family.

Not read the whole thread but I got my oldest dog when her aunt died at just under 5, ten days later.