Can Dog Really Be My Co-Pilot?

We've gone round and round about this one, and I am the lynchpin in this decision. To dog or not to dog, that is the question. Everyone in my family wants one. My husband could go either way, but he won't bite unless I give the green light.

That's because he knows exactly who gets responsibility for the little guy or gal in the end. The buck stops with Mom. To continue the terrible puns, allusions, and other plays on words, "Ask not for whom the dog barketh, it barketh for thee" . . . Mother.

On the one hand, a companion might be a good way for all of us to let off steam—to play with someone who accepts you unconditionally, warts and all, and never argues, a pet that you can love and who loves you back. On the other hand, the arguing among the bi-peds might increase when it comes time to decide who gets to walk and scoop after the critter. (Nah, no arguing allowed.).

The real sticking point for the adults in the household, however, is what to do with our furry friend when it comes time to travel from A to Z and points in between. We are accustomed to being able to pack up and go at will without having to consider what to do with an animal in our care. Do we board or make other pet-sitting arrangements, or do we take with? If we take with, do we have all supplies with us for the trip? Do we need to make special arrangements with airlines or on trains? Do we need to search out special hotels that accommodate pets?

So much drama. It's like having a permanent baby in the house. Instead of a diaper bag, however, we get to pack up the pooch purse. It frequently is enough just to have every human at our house responsible for her own belongings, never mind another living being and it's accoutrements. And my husband is incredibly good about planning and logistical management, but this would be one more piece of the moving puzzle to figure into the equation. He could handle it, I know, but . . .

Ahhhh. Still deliberating. I'll let you know when we decide anything. If we decide anything. At the moment, procrastination does seem to have its merits.