So, so sad to hear of your loss Norm. Losing a much loved pet not to mention companion and family member is indeed devastating, but as with any loss time can help you recover somewhat. I know when we lost our eldest dog we got another within a week, mainly to help keep the younger one company and so as to see some good come out of a very bad situation, but I appreciate that might not be the right thing for everyone.

So stay strong, give Tawny a big hug and may Drambuie rest in peace.

Thanks Paul! Drambuie was a big stress in my life with her wanting up and outside at all hours of the night, but we still miss her. She was a good buddy in her own way! I'm not rushing into getting a second dog. We'll see how Tawny adjusts over the next couple of months. Two dogs just doubles the workload and expenses! I do have to go outside with Tawny at night, but so far ... I haven't had to actually pee in the front yard yet, but I'm sure she would be happier if I did! :-)

My condolences on the loss of your Drambuie, Norm. I know how it feels to lose a beloved pet, and I'm hoping that time will heal the ache in your heart sooner rather than later.

Thanks Valerie! I was glad I didn't have to put her down, but I sure wish she'd passed away at home. Tawny still looks for her every once in a while.

Well damn, that is such sad news Norm. I am so sorry that she died while you were gone. Give Tawny a lots of tussles from me. I'm sure she is confused with Dram not being around. If only we could explain things to animals. Enjoy Tawny while you can, they leave us far too quickly. Know you both miss Dram in spite of her being cantankerous. :)

Thanks Chris! Tawny has been getting to go more places without the limitations Dram put on us, but she does miss sleeping next to her. I think she knows what happened to Dram, but just forgets every now and then.

I agree that she is probably aware of why Dram is gone, animals sense more than we realize. We were fortunate to have Higgins die here with us and she got to go over to see him ... I know that must sound strange but we thought it was better to let her investigate what had happened rather than have the big guy just disappear. She gets lots of attention and seems to be adjusting well... probably better than Charlie and I. ( she also looks for him from time to time as well)

Dram and Tawny were sharing a suite at the kennel/vets when Dram passed. There were a number of times in the past where Tawny got me up in the middle of the night and when I went in to check on Dram ... she was so still I thought she had passed. Tawny got me up around 2:AM last night and I thought she wanted out, but I think she just wanted to know Dram wasn't outside. Once I opened the door and looked out she was ready to go back to sleep. Tawny is playing more now, but she was very quiet the first two weeks. Mom and Dad are still adjusting to not having their dog. Dad want's another and Mom ... no so much even though she really misses Brownie. I've read stories where zoo elephants will recognize the skulls of other elephants they use to be with.

Oh I'm glad that Dram didn't die alone and that Twany is becoming playful again Norm. It has be be hard on her as well I am sure. As for the elephants, they are pretty amazing creatures, we watched a very good documentary on them and were amazed. Not only do they recognize the skulls of elephants they used to be with ... it seemed like they also mourned them as well. I can't remember if it the Nature Channel or some other animal related program ... wish I had recorded it. (although it was indeed a sad thing to watch)

I don't know if we will get another cat (we can't have dogs here in the apartment) when Willow is gone. There are so many animals that need a home but for us it couldn't be a kitten as at our age it would probably out live us.

They say thought that pets are good for us, emotionally and for our health. Maybe your Mom will come to want another dog. I hope so. :)

I don't think Mom will change her mind. Yes ... I didn't know how much I missed having a dog until the girls came to live with me. I would be easier taking care of them if I were retired. I do hate leaving Tawny at home all day by herself.

My condolences go out, Norm. It's a sad thing to lose a pet that has become a family member. We get so close to them. Hang in there!

Thanks Kenny! Yes ... she is missed. Tawny is able to go for walks now though. Dram was not up to talking long walks and we didn't go.

Thought about Dram ...

Thanks Chis! We still miss her even though Tawny and I get to spend a lot of quality time together.

Norm, I don't think we every get used to them being gone. :( Glad you & Tawny get to spend some good time together,