My dog managed to slip out the door yesterday and ended up going straight for the road and got ran over. I feel so horrible.
Holy cow, that's terrible. I really feel for you. My dad had that happen to him and his dog when he was young, and he's told me about it as a warning to make sure I'm safe with ours. I wouldn't wish it on anyone. I hope you get through the grieving process okay.
It's going to be hard, and I don't think I'll be able to have another dog anytime soon. It'll take a while before I'm comfortable enough,.
I would definitely take as long as you need, so you don't put unhealthy pressure or expectation on the animal to live up to a memory it can't live up to. But if you feel comfortable with the idea, then I would consider it when the time is right. You'll know when that is.