DEAR ABBY: My adult son and his wife have had a dog for two years. I do not want a dog in my house, but I also don't want to prevent them from visiting (they live six hours away). We have tried keeping "Puddles" in the basement, but she whined all night, and my son ended up sleeping on the basement floor with her.
They think I'm going to give in because she's so cute, but I don't like little animals running, jumping and yapping. (OK, I'm high-strung, and holidays make it worse.) My husband doesn't support me and tries to sneak Puddles in when I'm not looking.
This is not fair! I'm the one who keeps the house nice, but I love my son. Any suggestions? -- PARTICULAR IN OHIO
DEAR PARTICULAR: Yes, your son should find a pet sitter or board Puddles for the time when he visits you. And if necessary, offer to pay for it. That way the poor animal won't be isolated in unfamiliar surroundings and will have companionship, you'll have peace of mind and your son will get a good night's sleep.