New puppy

[windand rain]

A good friend has very kindly offered me a labrador puppy but having recently lost my lovely girl I am still not certain if I have another dog life in me. I am approaching 70 so would be well into my 80s at its end of life. I miss my girl every day still look before stretching out on the sofa or getting up for fear of kicking her. Am I nuts or is it normal not to be sure

 

[Barton Bounty]

If your fit and able , take the puppy and enjoy it

 

[Clodagh]

Go for it. Would you have back up if you needed it in the case of illness or whatever? Although we can all need that. 70 is nothing.

 

[Sparky Lily]

We thought we had bought our last puppy 6 years ago, when we were both 67. Then we had the opportunity of getting a most gorgeous puppy last year, and had the same thoughts about age. But we managed to overcome them, and have not regretted it.

 

[FestiveG]

I think you should get the pup. When my dad lost his last lab he decided that he wasn't going to get another, although we did try and persuade him to. He was in his 80s and thought 60 years of dog walking was enough. He did say that he would continue to walk, but he didn't and I really believe that life on his own lost its spark for him.

 

[Spotherisk]

Get the puppy, and labradors are just the best companions (apart from the hair!)

 

[wren123]

Oh just go for it, we're in our 60's and lost our beloved lab a couple of weeks ago. We're planning on getting another early next year.
I think they keep you active, with a dog you have to get up rain or shine and go for a walk.

 

[MurphysMinder]

Last year , just before my 67th birthday, I bought a GSD puppy. I did consider that I would be approaching 80 if she lives into her early teens , but I have family who would help if I became unwell , as would the breeder. I’ll admit I’ve had the odd, what have I done moment when she’s been very full on , but generally she is a delight and I’m thoroughly enjoying her .

 

[Errin Paddywack]

I got my last puppy at 69 and am 75 now. You have a lot of years left so go for it.

 

[Pearlsacarolsinger]

Make a plan for what would happen if you are, for whatever reason, unable to look after the dog and then accept the offer. We should all have a plan, anyway.

 

[Clodagh]

Make a plan for what would happen if you are, for whatever reason, unable to look after the dog and then accept the offer. We should all have a plan, anyway.

Not that I’m a doomsayer but when covid was first a thing we found homes for all our dogs in case they were needed. It’s always worth knowing who to call.

 

[Moobli]

After losing a much loved companion it’s quite normal to feel that you don’t want to “replace” your old friend, and to feel anxious or unsure about opening your home (and heart!) to another. If it’s your age that is worrying you then make plans for any “what ifs” (family/friends/puppy breeder etc). I can’t imagine life without dogs so I’ll have them for as long as I’m fit and able. I hope you get the puppy