Determining the right time to get another pet after you have lost a family companion can be a difficult decision. A lot will depend on your family circumstances, whether or not you have an existing pet, and how well you are handling the grief over the loss of your previous pet. Most experts believe you should give yourself time to grieve before entering into the commitment of a new pet. If you have an existing pet, remember that it may be grieving also. If you are unsure, consider becoming a foster parent to an animal awaiting adoption or volunteer at a shelter so that you can get in some good cuddle time with another animal.