What a read - considering I'm trying to decide whether to rescue a dog from the Humane Society! I'm not a fan of pet-mess, shedding etc - I've mama-ed 6 (!) cats and one dog over the years - so I'm well aware of the time commitment, poop clean up issues etc. A LOT of work for this retired old lady. But I do like a friend who doesn't talk back at times! :)