DEAR ABBY: I am 23 and a dog sitter. I work through a company that sets up the visits and stay overnight with different families' dogs.
There's one family I sit for regularly. I absolutely love their two dogs and the family themselves. I stay anywhere from two nights to seven nights and work a second job on the weekdays. After walking, feeding, etc. is done, I have a ton of free time.
My dilemma: I'd like my long-term boyfriend to stay with me for a night or two on the weekends. I'm having trouble figuring out how -- or if -- I should ask them. They have never met my boyfriend, but I have proven my own trustworthiness because they keep asking me to come back.
I will go through my boss first, but I'm worried that the family may be offended if I even ask. Should I ask, or should I just let it be since it's part of my job? Help! -- THE DOG SITTER
DEAR DOG SITTER: You are in the dog-sitting BUSINESS, and if you want to be successful, you need to view it as such. Definitely discuss this question with your employer. Because you are working through a company, that company could be liable for any property loss or damage that might occur while your boyfriend was staying in a client's home with you.
But if there's any question in your mind about how asking your clients to have your boyfriend stay with you in their house will be received, don't do it. Some families have moral values that would preclude unmarried couples sleeping together under their roof. For the sake of your own credibility, please consider what I'm trying to convey to you.