Thanks for sharing "rescue Mom". Wonderful placement for all involved!

JMO, there's just no painting these situations of placing a puppy with someone having just lost their dog with broad sweeping strokes. I have found though that several of the prospective homes having lost an elderly pet have revolved their last few years around taking care of the ailing elderly pet, generally find those are the ones who have given themselves more time before entering into their search for a new puppy. I dunno, I kinda think they might take an "emotional" break and maybe needed more time for soul searching before making the decision whether they were ready and able to put their heart back out there.

I know when I lost my two personal horses, one I had from 4 years old until 37 years old, and her son from a foal until 31 years old (combined with losing them within 2 years of each other) I could not entertain the idea of getting another horse for at least a year. Part of it was emotional, part was I wanted to see what life would be like not having to be tied to the strict schedule involved taking care of horses which I'd been doing for near 40 years! LOL Came to the conclusion I couldn't live without my own horse.

I guess my point is, sometimes might consider the person inquiring has some intelligence and emotional stability to determine when they are ready to start thinking about adding the new puppy to their family. Breeders (or rescues) having screened homes for years, knowing what's worked out and what hasn't, probably know the right questions to ask to hopefully get to the point of making a good call on the placement and take each case on an individual basis.

Maybe she was researching the going price for a new pup and it took a bit longer to determine the going rate. It had been quite a while since she bought one so she wanted to check things out.

I agree, those that grieve over their lost pets turn out to be the most loving and caring homes.

Her first dog meant so much to her and I bet she thought by sharing how wonderful and perfect her lab had been was the best way to show you how much she would care and love your puppy.

Dont overlook those that care deeply.

I agree. I have had many folks talk to me at length about their dogs they have lost. In this busy world there aren't many people who you can tell about the love you have lost when that love is an animal. Should you lose a human family member through death everyone is sympathetic and understands. When the avaerage person loses a pet sometimes they might not have a bunch of dog loving friends like we all do :) I just keep listening and I can learn all I want from them about their lifestyle and personality.