welsh - i know how you feel, i really do. bert was one on his own - he understood what you said, how you felt, he was so sensitive he just knew when you needed a cuddle and when you needed to be left alone.
i'm not saying you should get another dog, i think this is something you can only decide yourself, but pea is such an amazing little man, he understands so much and we both see a lot of bert in him...
i hope your heart can heal, you'll never forget him, nor should you, but it's so comforting to remember and talk about the good times you shared. i hope you have someone you can do this with x