Maybe it?s time

[jonnytrabant]

Hi everyone.

I became a member of this forum many years ago when I got my wcs Harry and it was/is still the best source of information on cockers.

Unfortunately I lost my beautiful boy last October after a brief illness and the pain of loss is still a daily occurrence. My life is so empty without him and I am wondering if it?s time to get another. I know there can be no timeline when you should get another & I imagine many didn?t even get another.
Also would like to explore the possibility of adopting or maybe fostering though I imagine it would be difficult to give him/her up.
Some thoughts would be greatly appreciated folks.

Many thanks.

[bizzylizzy]

Hi, I think the ?right time? is different for everyone, some wait weeks, others need years and so if you feel its a good time then I would say go ahead.  There are so many dogs waiting in rescue centers for loving homes, I can?t offer any advice on where to look unfortunately as I don?t live in UK anymore but I?m sure others will be able to offer more concrete suggestions.
Best of luck in your search, do keep us updated!

[AndyB]

If you really feel ready for another Cocker then Spaniel Aid is a fantastic rehoming charity.  There are so many beautiful spaniels that need a loving home at the moment.  I wish you luck in your search.

[Jaysmumagain]

So having been in the same situation several years ago, I would say that it is not a replacement for your beautiful boy.  Each of my boys have had such different personalities and they are there have and are their own little individuals My boy now is called Harry

I would look at Spaniel Aid too, they do have some lovely dogs and also foster, naturally they are very thorough -I had sent photos of my secure garden and other things they asked for etc. Having owned ECS for over 25 years I was told I was in a great position etc.

I sent queries in for three dogs, and had conversations and none seemed a good match as told by the lady who was linked to us by Spaniel Aid.  Finally I was offered a 12 year old in London. The journey of 5 hours one way was a bit much as was the thought of possible transporting a dog with stranger five hours.  Luckily we found some where closer and did not adopt.

Just to add I think we have someone on here who fostered and then kept the dog.....speak to them.

A smaller rescue is https://www.caessr.org.uk/rehoming/dogs/needing-homes.html based in Stoke on Trent

Best wishes

[Finvarra]

I really admire people who can foster a dog. I don't think I could do it, to start to love a dog and then let it go to someone else. I would always be worrying if it was OK! I have a friend who does the puppy stage of guide dog training, all the hard work and bonding, then for it to go to it's new (blind) owner. What courage.
Having said that, now I am getting quite old, I think after Dylan I might not have the length of life for another dog, let alone the now astronomical vet fees, so maybe fostering would be a good idea for someone in that position. Tricky.

[MIN]

Fostering a dog is a wonderful thing. Another reason too is that the fosterer usually gets first dibs when it comes to adoption . So you don't necessarily have to give them up. Spaniel aid have many failed fosters due to this