Emotions roll when the ex gets married
Dog parents, your heart is in the right place, but please remember that some dogs have troubled pasts and are not safe when they are frightened.
-- Mutt Mama
Dear Mama: Thank you to all of the loving humans who offer rescue animals their forever-homes.
I hear you, regarding the challenges of acclimating a traumatized dog when other humans disregard your warnings.
Furthermore, loving dog owners, please don't approach my young (possibly nervous or frightened) children with your large dog with the greeting: "It's OK. Buster LOVES kids."
Many parents thoughtfully teach their children never to approach a dog without first asking its human if it's OK. If only all of the canines' humans offered the same careful approach of asking before introducing.
And please don't bring your dog into my house without advance notice. My elderly cat (age 20) is one dog-encounter away from using up his ninth life.
Dear Amy: "Young Widow in NY" was upset at being saddled with a huge bill for her husband's funeral, all because of funeral charges racked up by the late-husband's mother.
Overall I didn't like your advice, but I especially didn't like you suggesting that this woman should "consider bankruptcy." That is completely irresponsible.
-- Upset
Dear Upset: This young widow described "swimming in medical bills," in addition to the exorbitant cost of this funeral.
Yes, I did suggest bankruptcy "as a last resort." She seemed to be completely overwhelmed by the debts brought on by her husband's illness and death. Bankruptcy could help her get a fresh start.
(You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy@amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or Facebook.)
