My dogs were both in the house visiting this evening, and ended up rolling on the floor in a scratch and tickle episode with my ex. They've convinced him that dogs are great pets (I'd had cats for years, but dogs can be so much more in the here and now with you, if that makes any sense). But I know that these animals, out of the range of my influence, could be entirely different. Years ago I used to walk my dog to the corner store and tie him outside while I went in. I wouldn't do it today, for the reasons Janie gives, plus I'd be afraid of theft.

SRS