my dog was ran over yesterday after sneaking outside.
i would definitely take as long as you need, so you do not put unhealthy pressure or expectation on the animal to live up to a memory it cannot live up to. but if you feel comfortable with the idea, then i would consider it when the time is right. you will know when that is.
it is going to be hard, and i do not think i will be able to have another dog anytime soon. it will take a while before i am comfortable enough,.