Im not too sure how this all works but i just wanted to do a post and say hi to everyone and introduce myself.My name is hayley and i live in the south waikato.i live with my 2 1/2 year old daughter and my gorgeous german shepherd cross ,Ash.I found Ash when i was volunteering for the local spca,walking their dogs that they had for adoption. I walked her and then never wanted to leave her,so she came home with me,much to the suprise of my mum and dad,but they fell inlove with her straight away.
Anyway years have passed and i have had Ash for 8 years,she was 1 when i got her,and sadly she is slowing down.I am due to take her into the vets for xrays on her hips.What i am wondering is,should i get another puppy while she is around so they can enjoy each others company for a few years or should i wait until ash passes.It's very sad as it doesnt feel like she is that old,but has declined rapidly?what should i do?any help/comments would be greatly appreciated!thanks guys and hope to talk to you all soon.

Well, I'd think it's a matter of personal preference. If you think Ash gets a bit lonely at times, like when the whole family are on their businesses, children off to school, dad goes to work, you go shopping etc,....then a puppy may be good for both Ash and the pup itself.

And welcome, Beth. <img border="0" title="" alt="[Smile]" src="images/icons/smile.gif" />

I think K9Loyal is right - you know Ash better than anyone probably. Personally, if you have concerns about her hips I'd wait until after the vet visit before you make any decisions. If her hips are likely to cause her any pain the last thing she'll want is a lively puppy charging around - and worse, if she can't play too (comfortably). Then again, if she's fit and well and young at heart she might just enjoy having a companion. We got our second dog when Kala was 5 and I reckon Shelby breathed new life into Kala (not that she'd slowed down any at the sage) but they charged around all over the place together.

Keep us posted and welcome to our family

I would like to say that my "Storm" who crossed the Rainbow Bridge a couple of years ago did enjoy a new puppy coming into the household BUT she did get a little titchy with it us well; especially on the days her spine/hips were playing up & she didnt feel like playing and you know puppies, they find it hard to take no for an answer! Your decision in the long run as only you know how uncomfortable Ash is on a daily basis.