Cats and dogs

[Spring1]

My husband died 5,years ago of copd. I’m stage 4 & have bronchiectasis as well. Health took a real dive in April when I got pneumonia & haven’t really recovered recovered too well from it. I don’t manage too well, constant infections etc so am living with my daughter & her family, effectively she’s my carer. Trying to sell my flat so we can get somewhere more suitable together but meanwhile we’re very swished & it isn’t ideal though we all try. My dog aged 16 also died thus tear & I feel as though I’ve lost my best friend. My daughter has a dog who’s gorgeous but I’m very lonely. Pretty much housebound fir now (1st floor & no lift) but I’m considering getting either older dog/cat when we move. I know I won’t be able to do walks etc but she’s said she’ll do it & also it would probably outlive me. Although I know she would take it on, would it be unfair for me to get one? Anyone’s guess how long we’ve got I know but if I’m looking at 12 months seems unfair. What are your thoughts? Don, I know you’ve got midge.how do you manage?

[HungryHufflepuff]

Animals are good company. If you like cats you could either get an indoor cat or older cat who probably would prefer to stay in. Cats Protection have cats who need rehoming, but they also have a fostering scheme. If you're getting a new house that's on the ground floor you could fit a cat flap then the cat can let itself in and out anyway. None of us know what tomorrow will bring. Life rarely goes how we think anyway. If you share your home with a cat or dog it will bring happiness and companionship to you both.

[Spacecat1]

I agree with Huffpuff a cat would be a good idea. Cats protection or RSPCA often take in cats who's owners have passed so just need a home. maybe take on a small dog that dont need to many walks that way not relying on your daughter too much you can get older dogs

[Hidden]

My experience with Midge isn't going to help you much I'm afraid. We've been together since 2007 and there's a very strong bond between us which you could never hope to build with a new older dog. The dog would need more care and attention with settling in than you would be able to provide. Even with Midge, seeing to her needs takes a lot of effort which in my case is paid back by the help she gives me. She remembers our routine better than me and prompts me if I overlook anything. I hate having to say this, but I think a cat is your best alternative and HH has given excellent advice. 😘 Of course, taking part in discussing things here is good company too, as I think you are finding. 😉

[Spring1 in reply to Hidden]

It’s really hard. Taco was actually 17 when he died & ive had him since a puppy. He was blind, bladder problems etc so I use to put puppy pads on my bed for him. He frequently missed them mind you so lots of changing duvets etc. He was totally spoilt & could never be replaced but I was thinking an older dog might be good for both of us. I’ve always had cats &?dogs & odd to wake up during the night and not find them next to me.,interesting comments from everyone though so thanks very much

[Damon1864 Volunteer]

Having a cat would probably be the best thing for you. I have a little Jack Russel, he's nearly three but my husband and grandchildren take him for walks, but he keeps me company when I'm in the house alone when my husband goes shopping. But a cat can be fantastic company and very loving. Have a lovely day and take care of yourself 😊 Bernadette xx

[cofdrop-UK]

So sorry to hear of your losses and your ill health.

I had cats all my life and then got a rescue dog. When he passed I looked for ages and for one reason or another I didn’t get one. It suddenly dawned on me that I knew in my heart of hearts I was faffing about as I knew I couldn’t walk a dog twice a day and it wouldn’t be fair. So I went out to the Cat’s Protection League last year and brought home my beautiful female cat. She is a joy and very independant - such good company and has certainly landed on her paws.

Whatever you decide, I am sure it will be the right choice for you.

Cx

[Spring1 in reply to cofdrop-UK]

I’m a total mug when it comes to my animals. Ended up with 4 cats & 3 dogs at one stage. They know when they’ve found an idiot. I’ll probably end up getting a cat I’m used to being a slave to them!

[judes]

I’m so sorry to hear of your losses, losing a pet is like losing a family member.

Taking a dog on is a huge responsibility, they need walking in all weathers, if it’s raining still need walking. When my dog died I was heartbroken and wanted another one, but my sensible head took over and got a rescue cat.

Well, actually several rescue cats, I couldn’t help myself! Age range from 20 to 18months.

Cats make lovely companions and certainly give me a reason to get up in the morning. Two of them sleep on my bed and when it’s cold Dingo pinches my hot water bottle so now take two to bed. I wouldn’t like to think I spoil them!

As long as you remember dogs have masters and cats have slaves you can’t go far wrong.

Love and hugs

J

[Spring1 in reply to judes]

All mine have had a slave. They trained me well!!!

[Spring1]

All mine have had slaves , im well trained!

[jackdup]

They can sure help to lift your spirits when you are down.

[Ergendl]

When I thought I would be moving abroad in a few years' time, I took in an older cat from the RSPCA cattery at Stapeley. She was wonderful company once she was over the first shock of moving into her last home. I put in a cat flap so that she was able to go out and about, but she tended to stay in the house and just spent time in the back yard when it was sunny. Lovely loving companion. She died shortly before I got married again and all my plans for the future changed.