Woo Hoo!! I am so excited!! Please let me know how it goes at the local shelters. I know you guys will eventually find the perfect dog that is waiting for you to save him/her.

When we got Zoee we just held onto to Zoee so she wouldn't chase Taz. Then when we learned that all she wanted to do was play, we were able to let them get acquainted on their own terms. I will tell you though, we have had Zoee for almost two years and they have just recently come to terms with each other. Zoee has learned that Taz does NOT want to play, and Taz has learned that Zoee is not going to eat him. LOL

We were also lucky, I think, with Zoee and the chewing. Anytime she had something she should not be chewing on we would give her a toy that is okay for her to chew. She never destroyed anything by chewing.

Staying out of the cat food. We have Taz's food up on a TV tray in the corner and anytime Zoee went in that area we would redirect her away from it. She still sneaks into the cat box every once in a while. YICK!!

As far as crate training goes, that is your preference. We did not crate train Zoee. However, since you and Hubby will not be home during the night, it might be a good idea to crate train the new dog. Do a search on here about crate training, I know there are a few threads about it, with some very good advice.

Well, my advice is just that.....advice. I am only speaking from experience and I am sure there are others that have more and better ideas.
I know there are some very knowledgeable dog trainers on here as well.
Good Luck!! And I look forward to hearing from you.