I had our dog after my husband died, he was the reason i got out of bed and the reason i functioned we shared our grief and our loss i think, sadly he has also now gone to be with his dad, i knew because of his age that i wouldnt have that comfort for ever, but i will always be grateful for having him and that he waited long enough for me to gain some strength.
I said i wouldnt have pets any more - which is why now i have 3 fish - rescued from various sources, sometimes hedgehogs brought to me in various states, ( i now have a hedgehog rescue pack always ready) A pigeon, and a blackbird both still hanging round after i rescued them, three dogs who come to stay for their holidays when their owners are away - and funnilly enough a ginger and white cat that doesnt come to the house but comes for a fuss when i am passing his territory -but weirdly considering i am more a dog than cat person, looks disdainfully on others walking past, in the way that only cats can do.