I keep saying the exact same thing - before I got this one I had a 6 month break - NO MORE DOGS...
Like I said it only lasted 6 months. You get used to that early warning system. I was living alone at the time and the company was nice. Now, I'm becoming more selfish - I don't feel like taking care of anything anymore. It's enough work taking care of myself.
Plus all the drama as they get older.
Problem is, getting rid of the blues, usually means getting a brand new one.

+1 on everything you said. Always had a dog, they earn their keep visa vi intruder patrol. I've always had well trained man stoppers too. But I feel the same way you do except I don't think its not us being selfish RK. I have a hectic work schedule,I'm sure you do too,free time is minimum and when its time to go I always have to make at times, futtile efforts get dog watch support or minimize by plans to vacate. And dog care....its not cheap.

Speaking of one thing after another...
I go to shave this morning... grab the shaver turn it on and boing! the spring shoots out and striaght down the drain in the sink. - gone for good -
Luckily the shaver runs 3 cutting wheels - now it runs on 2

Simple solution....stop shaving,lol.

That would be too easy...