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Scared to love another dog... help?

1135 Views 4 Replies 5 Participants Last post by  DaySleepers
Hello! I am getting a golden retriever this summer. I have recently moved out of my dad’s house where my heart dog is that I have had since I was nine. She is 12 years old and I have no idea how much time she has left but I’m scared. I’m scared I can’t live without her. I’m scared I can’t love another dog like I love her. I am having so much anxiety on something that hasn’t even happened yet and I feel so hopeless and sad because I don’t want her to pass. I always call her my soulmate, the love of my life, my best friend. But what happens when she is gone? Will I ever get over it? Will I love my puppy I’m getting this summer as much as her? What have you all experienced and can you offer any suggestions? I understand I need to just enjoy the life she has left but I just can’t help but think about these thoughts and I don’t know how to stop them. I barely remember life without her in it.
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You won't love your new dog like the old one. You can't. It's impossible. You will, however develop a relationship with your new dog that is unique to them.

I've loved every dog I've owned. I lost my "heart dog" a little over three years ago. My relationship with her was not the same as the relationship I have with my current two dogs (whom I also had before she died). And it won't be the same with the puppy I'm getting in a couple of months. Each one was, is, and will be, a relationship unique to that dog.

It might be helpful to talk to a therapist or councilor, and let them help you sort through how you are feeling.
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I completely understand how you feel. What you have to think is I don't want my dog to be in pain so when the time dosea come for your dog to cross the rainbow bridge you will be so thankful that she is at peace now. It sounds like you have given her a great life and I am sure that this new dog will bring some light to your heart. It won't be the same but it can still be a great realationship. I hope this helps a little.
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Open your heart to the new dog. It will be different but that little dog’s heart is open to you. Care and love it. It will love you and will become a friend because you have opened your heart of companionship.
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This thread is six months old - just a heads up that our Recommended Reading section often pulls up older topics. I'm going to close the older threads to further replies.
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