This is kind of an interesting interview.  

I hadn't actually seen an interview with Snowden before.

I have read many Americans declaring him as a traitor, but I still don't get it.  He seems like a whistle blower for something the government knows isn't in the interest of it's citizens rights, but convenient to have.  

Anyone can say "Yes, it's a lot of power in the wrong hands but I know how to use it.", what happens when the power changes hands?  You can't suddenly turn the switch after the catastrophe has occurred.

(http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=f93_1390833151)

My siblings who stayed in the States seem to be split on the topic.  Is no one alarmed by the fact that your privacy can be invaded at any time without your knowledge/warrant/consent?

  I agree full heartedly.  I only look for those 5 and older - wonderful dogs.   You are right - most of the problem dogs have been put down by ave 5. You do have great family dogs, companions.   They still have years of active adult years for jogging, the great outdoors, advanced obedience trials...

 Depending on the breed and individual, you can find those with hyper-energy bouncy or couch potato snugglers. 

Best of all, when when adopted from the Humane Society, they are assessed for stable temperament and for what kind of household will be good matches.  

Well, one more "best" - when you get a puppy (to 2),you have not only potty & basic training...  You also will not know what you will get when they grow up..   The true Personality  and character doesn't show up in puppies.   With an adult dog, you can experience the full finished product.   

Plus, having been surrendered, they are so grateful to have a home again and will bond quickly and will deeply love you. 

Teri 

Nope - didn't come across that way at all! I didn't even know that LaLaurie was a real person, so thanks! :)

I've been haunting AdopTaPet.com for almost a year.   I've gone through looking at one breed after another, from my previous Shar-Pei/Staffordshire cross to my current Golden Retriever.   Being over 55, Humane Society shelters often offer adoption of dogs 8 & over for $55.  And a month "warranty" in case the two of you don't work out.   

Unfortunately, I'm still only looking  because I will be back in Texas for at least 2 weeks later this year.  I simply could not be away from an adopted dog so long in the first year.   There will be time enough after I get home. 

I've thought about your question about introducing a new dog.    Here's my observations and thoughts on it..... 

A dog as old as 11 is getting elderly - they are (usually) slower, calmer, set in their ways...  A pup or young dog can hound the older dog with its relentless needs for playtime.  

If you take your dog to doggie daycare and tell them you'd like to see how your dog would react to young dogs coming into the household.   They should be able to report their impressions. 

My mother's poodle, tho active outdoors, was miserable while indoors with the pup - trying to hide from being romped on and continually woken.  Once the pup grew up and settled down, it was better. 

A dog of full adult years, of 5 or more, could potentially work... 

However, I would not bring in another dog until after your eldest dog is passed.   In the meantime, I'd consider taking him to daycare (or to a friend's with a dog, for socializing once a week or so.   You'll be able to see how he does with others and how ctive, how dominant or submissive a dog he does best with. 

Another thing - it is best to match dominants with submissives, to ensure a minimum of conflict, a peaceful pecking order.   Females with males, too.  Two of the same sex will feel competition and have conflict, rather than develop a close companionship. 

Good luck.. 

Teri 

100% fact, horrible, you got it:)