I've done similar, lost the guy a few months back, miss those "games".
Here I am now two and a half years later thinking I'm never getting another one. I'm 58, an empty nester and am enjoying my freedom in being able to come and go as I please. I'll spend several days at a time away from home at the GF's house or travelling somewhere. Still, there are times I do miss my Teddy and the companionship that only a wonderful animal like him provides.