A dog in 2011?

I have been begging for a dog for what seems like forever.  Last year at this time my best friend/dog Libby passed away and at that moment I vowed I would never go through this pain again.  Libby lived in Ohio so I missed her daily but they day she was taken away and I knew I would never pet her again was the most gut wrenching pain.  So imagine my surprise that today Brian and I are seriously thinking about going and seeing a cock-a-poo puppy.  So not only am I overcome with feelings of sadness and guilt because I originally felt like I was betraying little Libby, but I am also wondering if Brian and I are ready for this next huge leap into adulthood.  Are we ready to take on the responsibility?  I think we are but we will just see what is in store for us...