DEAR HARRIETTE: My daughter has been badgering me about getting her a dog for years. I have always said no, including now -- for two reasons. First, I have no time or inclination to take care of a dog, and no matter what she says, even at age 16, she will not accept responsibility for walking, feeding, bathing and entertaining a dog. Second, I’m allergic to dogs, even hypoallergenic ones.
She met a teacup dog, a tiny dog that can fit in a purse, and has started up all over again. I don’t want to deny her something she really wants, but I can’t do it. How can I make that clear to her without being mean? -- No Dog House
DEAR NO DOG HOUSE: If you are clear that you will not be welcoming a dog into your home, don’t waver. Tell your daughter that a dog isn’t happening. But tell her that when she has her own house, she can do whatever she wants, including having a dog. Let your daughter know that this is not a punishment. More, you know what you can handle. She will need to figure that out for herself when she has a dog. Talk to her about what the responsibilities are so that she knows what she’s getting into. Don’t tell her as if she wouldn’t fulfill them; just remind her so that she has a clear understanding of her job when she becomes a pet owner.
If she is desperate to be around dogs, she might consider volunteering at the humane society or getting a job at a pet store.
(Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)