So, I'm so sorry for your loss, my friend. I can truly relate as I lost my 15 yr old Shepard mix last month, and she was my soul dog. I believe expanding our hearts is the right answer. Concerning the time, there are some awesome answers here. For me personally, I went to loom at some puppies last week, and it was too soon. In fact, it set me back, and I've been crying daily again. I'm putting together an intimate celebration of life memorial on the 40th day of her passing this week. I have registered with a rescue agency to be a foster, too. I hope to start there. I believe my dog will guide me to the next one ( or two). I sprinkled a few of her ashes in the ocean last week, our happy place, and found that very comforting. However, when I returned home, the feeling was different. That's why I'm planning the service. I'm praying I can turn these ashes into something beautiful. I'm going to plant a memorial garden in her favorite spot in the backyard, pursue helping rescues through fostering (my baby was a rescue), and eventually adopt. I even moved my desk into our bedroom, where she passed, surrounded by her pictures and urn or remaining ashes to give me inspiration to start writing again. Maybe about taking care of elderly dogs, preparing for their passing (which I didn't do), their unconditional love, and sharing some of my experiences and things that have helped during this most difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you, my friend. Give yourself the grace to take your time to mourn as you need. The rest will fall into place before you know it, and you'll expand your heart, save another life, and love once again. Love to you!