Dear Staci. I echo what everyone else has said. I lost the dog of my lifetime, my beloved Jingles, over 2 years ago. There is not a day that goes by that I do not think of her, grieve her loss, cry, or miss her desperately. I too, never wished for a pedigree, or to go to a breeder for another pup. Too many doggie's needing homes already! But, just 1 month after Jing's passing, all things and circumstances conspired to bring Star into my life. As you say about this golden pup, she too needed a home. And I needed to put my grief to work, transforming it into a positive force, opening up my heart to another in need. Star has not replaced Jing. She moved into my heart and my home, helped me to heal, and holds her own place among the animals I have been privileged to share my life with. Only you can decide in the end when the time is right. But, you should never feel that you will in any way betray the memory of Shai, the love you shared, by opening your heart to another. We think of you and beautiful Shai every day. I know you will make the decision that is best for you right now. Have faith in yourself and follow your heart. Love, Sandra, Cody and Star