ask dog lady
A: You have to meet in person to determine if there’s any chemistry. When a man really likes you and desires to know you better, he won’t care if you harbor a dog, a zebra, or an aardvark. However, the lawyer sounds like a man with rigid standards. Maybe he’s been burned by an ex with a Rex. Or maybe he believes a single woman with a dog will give him less attention. You don’t need such selfish thinking in your life. You were right to write him off without an argument. In the digital meet market, nothing is real until you actually meet face-to-face.
Dear Dog Lady,
I have been trying to sell my home for quite a while now and am looking at apartments to rent. However, the term "Pet Friendly" is not what it appears to be, much to my disappointment.
I have always had "very large" dogs. I lost my Anatolian Shepherd last February. I have my other girl who is a half Boxer/half Airedale mix. She weighs in around 70 pounds. I have yet to find an apartment that will allow a dog over a weight limitation, normally “under 20 pounds, or small enough to be able to pick up.”
I do not understand the logic behind this anti-large dog premise. Do you have any suggestions or comments in regard to this?— Lee
A: The theory: Small dogs can cause less damage than large dogs. However, it all comes down to the owner.
If you find a “pet friendly” apartment you like, you are wise to present yourself as the finest tenant any landlord could hope to house. Dress nicely. Instead of complaining about the weight limitation and bad mouthing smaller dogs, be upbeat and promise the landlord your dog is under your control and will behave suitably in the community. Meet every “no” with a polite “what if.”
Propose a codicil in the lease so your landlord retains the right to inspect the apartment on a monthly basis and you will pay immediately for any dog damage. Or offer to pay a higher security deposit. Introduce your pet to the proprietor. And present a couple of references from people who know your dog, attesting to her disposition and training.
In essence, do not be passive or defensive in your search. Be proactive and positive. Rentals banning pets and those that restrict weights are irksome but not insurmountable roadblocks.
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