Jealous Of Jack?

Dear Dog Lady,

My parents are in their late 70's -- very healthy, retired, and nuts where their dog is concerned. I am 55 years old and the eldest of three. A couple of years ago, I purchased a Jack Russell terrier for them as they are on a fixed income. Now, they will not go anywhere without the dog. When I visit, the dog barks non-stop and is carried around by one or both of them. The dog eats at the dining room table with all of us. I find this disgusting and revolting. So, I have not visited them in a while and they have not come to my house in almost two years. Because of this animal, our relationship has deteriorated to zero.

Any words of wisdom?

Susan

My, my, you are such a lazy Susan. You should have done your homework before giving your parents this dog. Dog Lady is appalled you chose a Jack Russell (now called Parson Russell) terrier because the breed demands so much stimulation as to be a ridiculous choice for elderly people – no matter how healthy they are. Jacks thrive with constant exercise. Their aerobics allow them to work through all their terrier neurotic issues. No wonder your parents’ dog -- cooped up and coddled -- barks all the time. The animal wants to get out of their arms and run like the wind.

Susan, are you a mite jealous of the attention your folks lavish on your canine step-sibling? Just asking. Your parents love the dog and they obviously enjoy its bad behavior. Their dog is boss and that’s OK with them. Maybe you have a problem with it, but, hey, you got them into this relationship.

Lighten up. Be happy your retired parents have a kooky critter in their lives to distract and delight them. Go visit. Offer to take their dog out for an extended jaunt. Challenge yourself to get the demanding Jack so exhausted the animal will sleep under the dining room table instead of bark in the booster seat at the head of the table. Then you might enjoy some quiet conversation with your estranged parents.

Posted by Dog Lady at July 17, 2004 12:08 PM