Katey, that's a tough question, for sure. I'm sorry that's something you have to deal with all the time. Not fun. :(

Ashley, I love hearing your dog story. You and your husband probably learned a lot about each other through the process of training and caring for your dog. What a valuable experience—one that continues to give back to you each day.

Jennifer, I wonder, do middle children tend to "need" a pet more than others? Or is it a personality thing more than a birth order issue? A big part of why we decided to get a dog is because Q often seems somewhat lost in the middle, and she's always had a strong bond with animals. And you mention a pet as a way to help a child through some "issues." I just heard another mom tell me that's why they got a dog. I guess this is common? Anyway, I'll look forward to reading your blog post. (Thanks for the sweet compliment, too!)

Cobalt-Blue, that's right—you started all of this, didn't you? :) Well, our kids did, but you are clearly in cahoots with them. As soon as we actually have a dog at home with us I'll share the news and photos, too!

Dorie, my brother gets to bring his dog Henry to work. Isn't he lucky? Henry spends much of the day in Bill's lap while he works. Maybe you could sneak Edgar into the office for a less stressful work day...

Trina, that whole drug connection is really funny, and interesting, too. Did the article you read say anything about how petting a dog alters your brain chemistry similar to prozac, or was it less scientific than that?