Pipe, I recently went through the same thing with my 12 year old lab. Very difficult time, I know.
I'm so very sorry for your loss and it's true, only time will heal the wound.
We just recently adopted another pooch, a 15 month old golden retriever, and she has been somewhat therapeutic for us, but no dog will ever take the place of the one lost... just remember the good times you've had; that helps.