WooHoo!  Success.  This probably means I should take progress pics of me for the regular forum, but I'm not nearly as cute...

I don't mind the advice at all, and it's not unsolicited--I posted looking for input.  We are very fortunate that our older dog has not lost his eyesight.  When he was diagnosed with diabetes, they said the majority of dogs lose their vision in a year, but it's been longer than that and he can still see.  We make sure to check periodically, and the vet checked at his last appointment, too.  I think they assumed he was just getting around by smell, but he can actually see. 

I credit it to the fact that we actually monitor his blood sugar at home, even doing periodic glucose curves and adjusting his dosage accordingly.  Apparently, most owners don't do this, which amazes me, and not in a good way.  We would never expect a person to inject insulin without monitoring their blood sugar, so the idea of people injecting their pets without checking is shocking. 

We also give the dog rimadyl, glucosamine, and fish oil for his arthritis.  We want to make sure he's not in constant pain, since that's no way to live.  The vet said if it gets worse we can add tramadol, but he's had that before and it makes him super lethargic--also no way to live.

Our younger dog is unlikely to try to protect the older one from a new dog because the younger dog is the submissive one.  Anytime they're around another dog, if it shows any signs of aggression, he hides behind me, while the older dog tries to defend them despite being old, small, and arthritic.  For that reason, I don't take the older dog places where there is a chance of there being an aggressive dog.  There is no way he can defend himself, but he'll still try.

Hi, there...  It was great to hear that you've been socializing him and know how well he plays with others.  

I was so sad to hear about your dying dog.  Life must be near endless hours of pain.  Since he's deaf and little eyesight left (age & diabetic macular degeneration).   With no ways but touch to connect, he must be so lonely, so lonely.  

Well, given what you've said about your younger dog and seeing how close you must be close to letting your old fellow go home, I think you should start looking for a new friend and companion. 

Bookmark adoptapet.com..  You can have updates sent when your search criteria are matched with new added dogs.   Most places have someone upload new dogs only once or twice a week, so for the shelter(s)  closer to home, try calling more often. 

It's a good idea to stop by at least once a week to walk a dog or more.   Get friendly with the volunteers and staff.  Fill out an index card with your name and day phone numbers and what ages, size and that your home will include another dog.   Staple oa photo of your yard and, if you rent, get a statement on letterhead explaining that you have permission to have more than one dog.   

When you find a possible match, take your dog along.   The staff will let you know when you may get him out for a meet and greet. 

Keep track of Craigslist, too.  Pets are under Community.   You can select multiple  surrounding counties to also search, all at the same time. 

Once you've picked a dog and signed an adoption agreement, make certain your old dog will never have the new dog anywhere near.   It will be enough for the other two become thorough comfortable sharing a home and water dish, and understanding all the rules and routine.

.   Eventually a nose sniffing should be possible - but not with your 11 year old for he may be possessive of his long-term friend.  Please let us know about your search.  Maybe you can post pictures.  There are so many dog owners who adore looking at photos and hearing stories, happy or sad.. 

I hope you don't mind all the unsolicited advice, but since this is the off topic board, others thinking of getting a first or second dog, and this way, 50 years of dog adoption experience will always be here.  I'm big on teaching, but don't like to repeat myself.  

Teri 

I hate what happened at Sandy Hook.  I hate the fact that a parent was so irresponsible that she refused to address the serious mental health issues of her son.  I hate the fact that she made available guns to a person who was mentally ill.  But I don't hate guns.

I hate the fact that there are **** loads of parents out there that want to be best buds, one of the gang etc, instead of being parents.  I hate seeing parents throw liquor parties for their underage kids and their friends because they are the cool parents. Then put them on the road to drive.  I hate the fact that so many parents never have the balls to tell their kids that they were wrong at any given time, instead blaming it on others.  I hate that parents are teaching their kids that they are justified in being ******** because of any reason that comes to mind, a race trump card, a jealousy issue and on it goes.

As a parent you did what you thought was right, if you felt the need to interview other parents.  But unfortunately you can't interview the world to safeguard your kids from all harm.  I understand where you're coming from, but my approach was to instill in my kids the ability to say no and walk away.  To teach them to have the confidence to not allow anyone to get in the way of their ultimate goals.. And yeah to make self corrections along the way.

Guns will not be illegal, and while Newtown was the saddest day for our nation, it doesn't change the fact that even some Newtown parents are gun owners and have every right to be.

I just can't see making guns the worse offender, properly stored and/or carried weapons are not a threat.. irresponsible people are.

bikini's and our pool.  can't wait