DEAR ABBY: My sister, "Ellie," got a new puppy. The puppy was 10 weeks old and already named "Lizzy." Well, my other sister is named Elizabeth.
We live on opposite coasts and have very little contact with Elizabeth. It is only over the last year that we have really made an effort to stay in touch, mostly by e-mail. When Elizabeth heard that Ellie has a dog named Lizzy, she had a fit! Although we never called Elizabeth "Lizzy," it was part of her childhood nickname.
Elizabeth is insisting that the puppy's name be changed, and if it is not, she wants no contact regarding it. With most of the family here, including all of the nieces and nephews, I can see this leading to her refusing to visit -- which we have been trying to arrange for years. Is it fair for her to make this demand? -- UNSURE IN NEW BRUNSWICK
DEAR UNSURE: I can see why your sister might be sensitive about it, particularly if you haven't been close. In the interests of family harmony, call the dog "Izzy" or Dizzy" -- but don't call it "Lizzy."