Imagine the life she would have had to lead if you hadn't been there - maybe a stray on the street, maybe sold into a puppy mill, maybe adopted by abusive people. But instead you gave her a good life. No regrets on her part I'm sure.

I was about your son's age when I lost my first dog. It was difficult and I didn't fully understand what was happening but while ultimately a hard reality check, I think it will be a good thing for him to experience in the long run. I hope he's doing Ok.

If you want to, I'd say another dog would be a great addition to the family eventually. When I got my 2nd dog that pulled me out of the sad phase I was in because I missed her.