Pets should be considered the same as kids when it comes to any use/storage of firearms. As a certified firearm safety instructor, I will attest that it is not a good idea to leave a loaded weapon ANYWHERE that might be publicly accessible - single/childless or not. I have heard too many horror stories of people having friends over who suddenly become fascinated by an 'exposed' firearm when the host is unawares. More often then not these people are completely uninformed in firearm safety and stuff happens. Our society does provide ample circumstance to support a decision to own a defensive weapon. However, treating such with care and concern as though you do have kids is never a bad idea. It does not take that much longer to access a drawer or closet in the event of need and the resulting prevention of 'fuzzy' accidents can be well worth the effort. Anyway, as far as common sense and the law are concerned, the weapon should be the last resort in the event that such need for defense should arise... Scott [Posted in FML issue 1634]