My wife and I are dog people and even after 17 years, we still miss her Yorkie. That said, I think the Vangemerts have more money than sense...
My best friend crossed over the Rainbow Bridge 17 years ago, too. Still miss her terribly. Dang blurry screen. But, no, the clone would only look like her, not be her.
Current furbaby head count is 8. Each has their own special personality.