Annie’s Mailbox: Wanting to stop sleepover with Spot

Dear Annie: I am not an “animal” person. I was not raised with animals and find it difficult to have them in my home. Years ago, I tried a cat for my daughter’s sake, but it did not go well.

All my friends and family members know this about me. The problem is that certain friends and relatives who have pets expect to bring them to my house when they come to visit. I have offered to house their pets either in the garage or in my fenced backyard, but they dismiss that idea and insist that their pets stay in my house.

If people go to the expense to own pets, they should also include the cost of kenneling when necessary. I take offense when pet owners insist on forcing their pets on me. How can I tactfully make this clear to others? – No Pets, Please

Dear No: It’s your house, and you get to set the rules. Many people consider their pets to be their children and would not dream of kenneling them or placing them in a garage or backyard. That’s fine for them, but it is unfair to you.

Inform any visitors that you are so sorry, but you cannot accommodate their animals. Get the names of the nearest kennels, and also reiterate your offer to house them in the garage or backyard. If they insist that the dogs be allowed inside, remain polite and sympathetic, but say you will have to visit with them elsewhere. If possible, provide a list of local motels or hotels that are animal-friendly.