I don't have this problem. I don't want another dog. I love Lily. She is, by far, the best dog I could've dreamed of. Before I got her, I wasn't involved in any dog activities. Now we're in flyball, agility, lure coursing, therapy work, obedience, and rally if I ever get around to it. She's opened so many doors for me. She is so patient with me. She has taught me more than I could've ever imagined. I learn something new with her every day. We have, by far, not accomplished everything we've set out to do. But the journey is so much fun, so full of adventure and occasional hardship, so full of learning experiences, pitfalls, excitement, pain, frustration, and joy. She's the best dog ever. We're only getting started. I have absolutely no desire for another dog at this time, and when she eventually passes, it will be impossible to replace her. To answer your question, the only coping I will have to do is when she's no longer in my life, and that will be unbearable.