Almost a year ago, my wife and I lost "Spot" (use name rather than what appears on her registration papers.) Still have to stop myself sometimes (plates go on the coffee table or dishwasher rather than the floor.)
Drives up to my mother's house are a lot easier. Towards the end, Spot would not settle down on road trips (possibly car sick but no upchucks) and the time in the car was pure hatch-e-dobule-hockey-sticks.
Probably won't get another animal until my wife retires. Sort of dreading that because she wants a boxer, and the house is fox terrier sized. Anyone hear of a minature boxer?