Question: "Tuesday, we lost our beloved Boxer unexpectedly. She was only five years old. The Vet had no definitive diagnosis other than severe liver damage cause unknown.(We ruled out the recent tainted food fiasco). I guess my question is after we get through our grieving process should we replace? I'm weary and wary of doing this but the wife thinks it's a good idea. I think it is just setting one up for heartache later on. What do you think?" -- libliever

Answer: Since most dogs live, oh what, a decade or so, you would be setting yourself up for heartache later on -- unless you're unlucky or really old. But in my opinion, 10 years of loyal companionship is worth the sadness at the end.