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Post by elliesmum on Jun 12, 2019 5:50:14 GMT
I lost my gorgeous girl Ellie suddenly last weekend and I'm heartbroken. I also have an older Cairn terrier who was 1 year old when I got Ellie, who would have been 11 in a few weeks. We both are grieving terribly and I've spent the last days looking for a shep pup to take her place. I live on my own and my family, although they loved Ellie, always thought I was mad to get such a big dog. The fact is I wanted a shep when I got Biscuit the Cairn, because he was a small dog I thought I would be happy with him, but still wanted a shep - we had one when my husband was alive and sheps stole my heart. I know my family would prefer me to get a Cockapoo and I know a smaller dog would probably suit my circumstances better, but I also know that whenever I see a shep I will regret not getting another. Help and advice would be appreciated! Thanks
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Post by goodie on Jun 12, 2019 6:29:16 GMT
Hello, sorry to hear about your loss, I believe all of us here understand how you feel at the moment, especially if the loss is sudden and unexpected. You have got 2 options I think: find a reputable breeder through the Kennel club, or get a rescue shep. There are members here to help you with both options, just give it a few hours and I am sure suggestions will flood in.
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Post by cloud on Jun 12, 2019 11:34:43 GMT
I'm so sorry for your loss.
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Post by gsdgroupie on Jun 12, 2019 14:13:55 GMT
I'm really sorry to hear about Ellie, I expect Biscuit misses her as much as you do. It's so sad when a pet dies, isn't it? Did you have Ellie from a pup? At least you've got Biscuit to keep you occupied while you sort out in your head how you want to proceed. I think you have to honestly decide whether your lifestyle still suits having a big dog again and if so, would you take on a puppy or an older one? You are really the only one that can make the final decision, but there will be lots of support coming from this forum, you can be assured of that. Please keep in touch and let us know how you are.
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Post by cockneychris on Jun 12, 2019 14:53:55 GMT
Sorry for your loss, I and many on here know that feeling well.
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Post by jenna53 on Jun 12, 2019 22:40:07 GMT
So sorry to hear about your lovely Ellie. You must have lots of wonderful memories of her which will hurt you and also keep you going.
Getting another GSD is a big thing. You know their energy level, their demands, exercise requirements, their love etc. They are bloody hard work but so worth it. But it all depends on your own circumstances - can you afford to look after one, can you physically exercise it with long walks etc. Can you physically handle one if not so well behaved?
I am 66 soon and at the moment I can handle mine but I am quite strong having a background of weightlifting. She is almost 2 so I will not have another. It all depends on your own mental and energy levels. GSDs are very clever and need a strong mind as well as a strong body to look after them. If you feel you can handle one then go for it. Don't let your family decide for you.
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Post by jenna53 on Jun 12, 2019 23:04:30 GMT
NB when I said above re not well behaved, I just meant the normal stuff like lunging on a lead to chase a squirrel or a cat. I know if I haven't got hold of the lead properly and she pulls unexpectedly it can really throw you, it hurts, and takes an effort to control.
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Post by caryll on Jun 13, 2019 8:02:36 GMT
Hi & welcome.
I'm so sorry for your loss, it's an awful time, just after they leave us. It will get better, although that's easy to say & not so easy to see! One day you'll be able to look back with smiles rather than tears.
I don't know your age, health or circumstances (work etc),so it's difficult to say whether or not you should get another shep - only you can say, but you need to be honest with yourself.
If you feel you can cope, then go for it. If you need help in choosing (what health tests to insist on etc) then just shout!
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