Kev
I don’t post much but had to respond to your heartfelt post on the loss of Rex (think that was his name).
I am older and have never had children so dogs have always been my “fur kids”. I have been lucky enough to have had many wonderful dogs in my life and inevitably to have lost them. Some suddenly due to accidents and others by old age issues. None are easy and they all took time to grieve before I could move on.
I lost one at a young age too and it was probably the hardest, at least with the older ones I knew they were happy and we had shared so many great experiences. Mine are rescues now and age is a guesstimate but probably 10-11 years old.
I just want to encourage you to try again, when you are ready, because that would make Rex happy to know you gave another dog a chance (maybe even a rescue).
My prayers to you, your family and I know my Rudy, Roscoe, Champagne and Rebel are welcoming Rex over the Rainbow Bridge where he will be waiting for you when it is your time. God Bless you all.