That just breaks my heart. My wonderful vet years ago told me that once a dog is a senior, it's not fair to bring another dog into the household.
My sister's vet said something even better when they were considering getting a puppy when their Jack Russell was about 13. Dr. Beth asked her how she would feel if her husband brought in her replacement before she was dead?
I know how I exhausted I feel when my grandchildren come for a weekend. I would never ask Lady to put up with a puppy.
Marj, I will take this to another level here. My grandchildren wear me out, however I'm not in fear for my life. Can you imagine sitting in a lounge chair, old, with arthritis, sore bones, and body. Chillin', then suddenly your daughter brings over a Coyote to visit. Now you're being attacked by a Coyote. You can't defend yourself. You can't even run from it, as a result of your messed up patellas. This is how dogs feel. They feel threatened, and under attack.
I may be looking at the extreme here, but thru experience, a 15-year-old,
is in need of pampering, love, and attention.
We can all give our 2-cents, however, I don't believe it's fair to subject a dog, who's life span will not reach much beyond the years already lived, and think it will be a good thing to add, possible stress, to his life.
I feel sick for the seniors. I do speak from experience. Nope, I'm not a trainer. Just one who takes in the seniors, shortly after the new pup arrives, and gets on the "Old Dog's" nerves.
PS: I'm really not speaking of this thread. Just the topic in general, my love for the seniors, and heartbreak thru the years.
As Marj has always stated: SENIORS ROCK!! :chili: