My apologies for the confusing heading.
I have three children (12, 8 & 6) and a sweet 13yo cavalier spaniel, Dash. Dash has severe heart failure, and was diagnosed 4 years ago. We were told back then that he would probably have a matter of months to live. Our sweet Dashie continues to defy all odds, however I’ve noticed his health has started to decline. My 8 year old son loves Dash more than life itself. He knows that Dash is sick and won’t get better and he is absolutely distraught at the prospect of him dying. I’ve toyed with the idea of getting a new dog to soften the blow of Dash’s passing when it happens. But I also feel incredible guilt for introducing another dog into the family when Dash has provided us with nothing but loyalty and love and feel he deserves our undivided love and attention in these final stages of his life.
I guess just looking for some advice if anyone’s been in a similar situation. Am I overthinking it? Do I wait until our old dog crosses the rainbow bridge? What would you do?