We lost our old dog after 13 very happy years of him being our whole life. Ben went everywhere with us, he had his passport and travelled through Europe, he even had a blog which covered his whole life.
After he passed, the house was empty, there was no routine or structure to our days. I didn't have a reason to go out, and even the supermarket came to us.
Two weeks ago we found Oscar, a 14 week old Cocker Spaniel. His new owner couldn't cope with him. He has completely changed our lives, he is entertaining and keeps us busy again. He keeps us on our toes, (he also bites them with his sharp little teeth). We now go out everyday, we have a reason to. We take road trips to find new places for him to have adventures. We see our grandson more often he loves to come and play with Oscar.
Dog walkers are friendly people and Oscar has lots of doggy friends, and we have lots of people to talk to.
Perhaps we will start puppy classes to get the most out of Oscar, but just now he is doing really well with his training, we have researched the cocker spaniel and could almost pass an exam about them. Or are puppy classes just an excuse for us humans to get together and meet new friends.
On the downside, we have to go out in the rain and snow, up to now he has only been with us in the summer months, but a good warm coat is all you need, and a hot coffee when you get home.
Yes our life is back to having meaning and lots of love, cuddles and tickles (and not just with Oscar). Oh and I am told the biting will stop soon.