Flashback happening over here. There was once a kitten in my past that was an impulsive adoption, who was returned, only then to be re-adopted…all in the space of 90 minutes. That was a memorable afternoon to be sure. Did I traumatize that kitten because of my adopter’s remorse? “Dylan” was a rather neurotic cat come to think of it. And what a test it was to the relationship I was in. He was a good sport and we didn’t even have young children in the mix to factor in. I have to wonder how many people have had their version of trying to make the kiddos in your life happy as you also attempt to keep peace with the parent who (for good reason) might not be 100% behind the idea. Irony is, that the kids will probably still want a dog but they will also move on more quickly than the adults impacted by the experience.

What is the right choice when our kids ask for a pet (with their agenda being that they want a pet) and we know all too well that the work of cleaning up the messes to come will fall to us — parents who once were kids who also wanted pets to love. Sounds like this could be a teaching moment for everyone who ever wanted a dog (or cat) and had to get a partner or a parent to buy in. Certainly reminds me of the times I craved a pet…:)