TO ERIC: My age is seventy-one. After 17 years of companionship, our dog has been diagnosed with cancer. He has just a few days left to live. I have lived with pets all my life. It is likely that a new pet will outlive me, even though I would like to get another dog for the first time in my life. Would I be irresponsible to have a new pet at this point in my life?
Granddad in mourning
Greetings, Granddad: Hearing about your cherished pet makes me very sad. I am aware that there is a great deal of sadness and love there. Please don’t let your stage of life get in the way of your passion for dogs; many of them still need it. Since senior pets might occasionally be more difficult to adopt, think about adopting one.
Questions can be sent to R. Eric Thomas at [email protected] or by mail at P.O. Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110. Subscribe to his weekly newsletter at rericthomas.com and follow him on Instagram.)
Tribune Content Agency, LLC in 2025.
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