It's not just a dog, it's a loved family member. Non dog owners don't get it, a dog's loyalty, friendship and love is unique to humans. I had to put Taco, our 15 year old Border Collie down in February, a year and half after losing our Aussie, Ruby. Good news is their is another friend waiting out their to join your life and family, you just have to find them. We first added Sunny, and six months ago, Roxie. It doesn't make the hurt go away, but it does help.
Taco and Ruby, still missed...
Our new family members, Sunny, after playing hard! (Cattle dog)
Roxie, who is Sunny's new best friend. (Aussie and Queensland Heeler)