I've found the sooner the better - but to find one that matches your soul, not just a cute puppy. When our autism service dog died in April 2022, we got a puppy in June.

We have lost a number of very special dogs and cats over the years. I've found the longer you go before getting another one, the harder the grief is. The new animal literally boosts you thru the grief - it comforts you, makes you laugh, gives you a reason to get up and do things. If you put off a new animal, depression can be there a long time and the thought of a new animal becomes harder to bear.

Just make sure the next one hits your heart too. Most people just 'know' which dog or cat is for them. If you don't feel that spark, wait. There is another one out there JUST FOR YOU...you'll know when you find it. You have to look though.