This is a very difficult post for me to write. But I'm so inflamed about it - I just had to! Phyllis asked us not to flame her and to "Please don't think I'm a bad mom. I'm just tired, too tired to do it all." --- Well I'm sorry but how can you not be a bad mom when you are choosing one child (sheltie) over two others (Sarah & Noah). Have you ever thought that maybe Sarah doesn't like the new intruder because (as you put it) "We have wanted one for a long time. She is a joy". Don't you think S&N feel the neglect? I have 5 dogs and 6 ferts - believe me the dogs KNOW that I adore the ferts and they ARE VERY jealous. A couple on my dogs HATE the ferts - they just tolerate them. I try not to show favoritism between the species. But everyone has learned to adjust. But I would NEVER think of giving up one for the other - especially the ones that were there first. It goes to show that you play favorites. Time and loyalty don't play a part in your decision. How sad. I'm sorry but in my opinion you are a bad mom - but that's just my opinion. TjG [Posted in FML issue 3524]