I’m not sure I’d adopt an 8-year-old dog unless there was some heartbreaking story attached and no one else would take it. Papillions live, on average, 11ish years. So, I’m not sure I’d get a dog that is pretty much sure to die within the next 5 years.

If you travel and have to board the dog a lot, I’d just as soon not have a dog at all. Yes, you can board them, but boarding dogs often doesn’t seem like a great idea. We’ve only boarded Daisy twice, at two different places, and both times she came back as if she’d never been trained. It takes her a couple of days to get back into the swing of things, and it’s hard to guarantee your pets are being treated as they should be in a boarding facility.

So, I vote for visiting old Frodo. That way, you get the puppy love without the responsibility or added expense. Best of both worlds.

Frodo came back happy as a clam from the boarding and fit right back in to his normal routines. Of course, that might not be true of all dogs.

Get a kitten.

I know you’re not really a cat person, but all things considered, travel, boarding expenses, the high maintenance demands of dog ownership…honestly, I think you should consider stepping out of the dog box and trying a cat. You might be surprised at how loving, funny, playful and low maintenance cats are. You could get 2 kittens as companions, double your pleasure, double the fun, not have to worry about leaving them for a few days at a time alone, maybe one check in for litter box detail and a little attention and seriously, 2 cats will not equal the involvement of even one small dog.

Just something to consider.

@Coloma Yeah, but I am allergic to many cats.

I missed the story, but why can’t you keep old Frodo? Why is he being fostered?

@Symbeline http://www.fluther.com/171195/would-you-respond-to-this/

We will get another pooch, but not until at least a year passes after Penny, any sooner I consider an insult to her memory, but that’s with the tragic circumstances in mind.

I have adopted a number of pre-owned dogs in the past and had success. Knowing the background is key, and assume that people are embellishing a bit, in order to home the dog.

As for the old Frodo, I personally would not recommend visiting him, as you had him long enough to establish a pack. In my experience, when I have adopted a family pet, if the former owners visit and don’t take the dog home, the dog is confused and upset. Now I have a strict no visit policy when I take on someone’s pet. Some find that harsh, but the visits tend to be more for the emotional gratification of the human.

I would visit the old Frodo, if you think he won’t be confused as to why he is not going home with you, and if seeing him won’t make you have second thoughts about whether or not you did the right thing.

I agree with @canidmajor in that visiting old Frodo would IMO not serve a purpose other than confusion perhaps on both your parts. New pups in the household are only good ideas when the owner (you) have the time, energy, room and patience to take care of them.

Here ya go Jan.

www.petmd.com/cat/wellness/evr_ct_hypoallergenic_cat_breeds

I say do it all. Visit the old Frodo if it gives you pleasure. Go Frodoless until you see the travel abating, and then interview possible new Frodos as well as a possible Frodo-sitter when travel resumes.

Siberian cats were not listed on my link, but you can read the feedback comments under the breeds listed. I have a Siamese and they too are lower allergy and super funny, quirky, affectionate.

I think if you are inclined to get a dog get a new dog. I know people who when the dog finally dies (I know your dog did not die) they finally feel free. Initially they are heartbroken of course, losing a pet is a true mourning process for most people, which is completely logical and understandable. Other people feel horrible emptiness and want a dog in the house. If you don’t mind the work and loved the companionship, get a new dog. You certainly can wait a few more months before deciding, but it sounds like you have an opportunity right now that you are interested in.

I think visiting him would be bittersweet for you and confusing for him.

I have considered adopting an older dog. I would not do so unless I knew the background of the dog, including temperament, health history, and reason for being up for adoption. You know going in you will be facing another heartbreak earlier than with a young dog, so there’s that… But an older dog should live out his days in a loving home, not a shelter. Somebody has to open their hearts and homes to them. If the conditions are right, go for it. You want company and you would love having a dog.

Expense vs. companionship: no contest. I say on with the new!

I think it might be hard to visit the old Frodo for both of you.

All of my pets have done very well when at the kennel, but I would assume that is something you can check out about this dog.

When I lost my other dog Molly, I told myself it was the last dog I would get. Within 2 weeks I was on the boxer rescue sites looking for another. I missed the companionship.

I think the age of the new Frodo would be a good thing for you. The dog wouldn’t be as energetic as a puppy or young dog but still a good age to go for walks with you.
There is no way to ever know how long a dog will live, but bonding with an older dog and making him/her happy in the later years is a gift to both of you.

And finally, the dogs having the same name is so cool. I have called my present dog Jessie by Molly’s name so many times, I think she thinks both are her names.
Can’t wait to hear what you have decided.

Well, I don’t know yet if the new Frodo is still available. I called once and they didn’t call back. I also though an older dog might be less of a handful than my Frodo was.

Just called and that Frodo was adopted yesterday. Not meant to be.

As one who has adopted many older pets….yes, an older dog will likely be much easier to adjust into your lifestyle. Its temperament will likely be gentler (depending on breed and past care, of course).

If you feel ready for a new dog, go for it. Please don’t feel obligated to wait, if you’re missing the companionship. Just be sure you aren’t trying to cram new Frodo into an old-Frodo-sized hole. I know you will be careful, but it helps to consciously think about it, IMO.

As to visiting old Frodo: I don’t agree with the jellies who said a visit would definitely be harmful. Every dog is different. I would visit once, and ask for a clear account by the foster person. I would then discontinue the visits if there was any sign of Frodo getting upset.

If you’re thinking about getting an older dog, consider reading “Love has no Age Limit”. I liked it a lot :]

@longgone I rarely do anything without thinking and thinking about it!

@janbb In that case, take my words as meaningless gibberish!

@longgone oh – not at all!

Just get a pair of Penguins. Convert a bedroom into a climate controlled snow room, and then, all you have to do is set up a 200,000 gallon marine aquarium and raise your own herring for food. Easy! lol