poodle cross

Question
Can you help me please.I had to say goodbye to my
poodle terrier cross aged 16yrs.I had him since
puppy.Three years have passed and I cannot find replacement for him.I live in south London.What do you suggest I do. Brian  Thaank you Kathryn

Answer
Hi Brian,

I'm so sorry for your loss! I know how it hurts to lose a companion of many years.  Before I give you suggestions on getting another companion animal (I doubt you'll be able to replace him, but a new animal friend will make his or her own place in your heart) let me lead you to a wonderfully comforting website for those of us who hurt for lost loved ones:  www.petloss.com.  There is a lovely story of Rainbow Bridge that I highly recommend you read. It is:

Rainbow Bridge
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...

*******

As to a new pet, I'd suggest your visiting a local animal shelter.  There are so many abandoned, abused or neglected animals there that are just crying out for someone to love.  I'd visit once a week or so until you 'meet' your new companion.  Take your time and don't try and compare any of these dogs with your lost one - trust me - none of them will measure up.  You had 16 years with your companion and there is no way any animal on first glance will even come close.  The thing is, there are so many who will help fill the void in your heart and home.  Just be patient and diligent and give the new hopeful animals a chance to touch your heart.  That is the best advice I can give.  You may wish to try a breeder, but I find the loyalty engendered when you rescue a dog from a shelter is so profound it far outshines a "registered animal".  I wish you much luck.  I wish I had a quick and easy answer, but there are none.  

Bless you and take care!

Kathryn

PS - apologies for the late response. I thought I had responded, but allexperts has us 'review' an answer before sending, and sometimes I forget to submit it the second time.  Mea culpa.