Natalie
As a form breeder of collies, I would always tell folks that when deciding to being a new four legged into their life after a loss was not an act of replacing, as each four legged (just like us two legged) can never be replaced. You are just opening your heart to love again and to be reminded of the wonderful times you had with the one that is gone, but enjoying what the new member does in your family. So don't kick yourself anymore, just be happy to have a new companion that will bring back memories of the joys of the one that has crossed the bridge.
