Cherie T. Buisson, DVM, CHPV, CPEV
Certified Hospice and Palliative Care Veterinarian
Certified Peaceful Euthanasia Veterinarian
Low Stress Handling (TM) Silver Certified
In my job as an in-home euthanasia veterinarian, clients often ask me if it’s too soon to adopt a new pet. In our social media-fueled world, it seems we can’t make a move without wondering if it will be approved by gaggles of strangers and bots online. A social media influencer I follow got a ton of hate on Instagram when one of her dogs passed, and she got a new one. My parents generally adopt soon after saying goodbye. One of my doctors waited 14 years between dogs. When we lost Muggle, I vowed to take some time off from having a pet. I changed my mind quickly because the house was too empty. There’s no right or wrong here. Everyone is different.
The short answer is: it’s appropriate whenever you (and your family) are ready. A new pet can help heal your heart. They aren’t a “replacement” as nothing can replace a beloved pet. Instead, they are a life saved in the name of your lost love. And who knows? Maybe the pet you lost had a little something to do with giving you the gift of a new family member to love. Our pets love us – they wouldn’t want us to be alone and unhappy.
Having said that, there are some things to consider when thinking of adopting after losing a pet.
If you have been heavily caretaking, you might need a break to care for yourself before adopting. A gentle reminder here – just because you are ready doesn’t mean others in the household are ready. Especially if you weren’t responsible for the majority of caretaking for your pet – ask the person who has to take on the responsibility.
Adopting a pet that looks just like your pet could leave you with some difficult emotions when they don’t behave in the same way. We did better adopting dogs that didn’t look like our Muggle. Oddly enough, both the Quality Control Wieners each resemble Muggle in her own way. It always makes us smile.
Remember that finding your best match sometimes takes a little while. Better to wait for the pet that connects with you best than grab the first one that comes along. Having someone with you to provide logical feedback can be helpful here.
Your remaining pets may be grieving. Sometimes a new friend helps, sometimes that will make them worse. Cats especially need time to get used to big household changes. For dogs, try a playdate with a familiar, liked dog. If they light up, a new friend might be just what they need. Some pets absolutely BLOSSOM when they are the only pet. Give them a chance to see if some time with all your love to themselves is best for them.
Consider your remaining pets’ health. An elderly cat might not be able to comfortably handle the attentions of a rambunctious puppy. ALL family members should be considered.
Adopting a new pet after a loss is a deeply personal decision. It’s good to listen to the opinions of people who love you before making that decision. Then do what’s best for your household. The internet can keep its digital nose out of your business. Another note about internet interactions surrounding end-of-life: if you post ANYTHING about your pet online among strangers, be prepared that people will say horrible things to you. Sometimes sharing is better among people you know and trust or who are trained professionals.
Images courtesy of Urban Dog Studio and Pawsitive Exposure Project
Helping Hands Pet Hospice and Home Euthanasia Service is proud to sponsor Pawsitive Exposure Project, a nonprofit based in Pinellas County that uses the power of professional pet photography and storytelling provided by Urban Dog Studio and other professional photographers, to help homeless dogs find forever homes. By providing rescues and shelters with high-quality adoption portraits, social media content, and branded marketing kits, Pawsitive Exposure Project increases visibility for overlooked pets—dogs photographed through the program receive more than 700% more views on adoption sites. Beyond boosting adoption rates, the project builds strong connections between local businesses, rescue organizations, and the Tampa Bay community, showing how creativity and compassion can work together to save lives. Learn how you can adopt, foster, or sponsor at www.pawsitiveexposureproject.org
