I am a senior mom living alone. I have a small, well-trained, hypoallergenic, child loving dog who is my frequent companion, indeed almost a best friend. My grown, married daughter will not let my dog in her house, gives no reason except to say "it's about boundaries and I have to accept hers without explanation." When we sit inside, the dog is alone and crying outside. My grandchildren love the dog and don't understand the rule but abide by it. I feel very hurt. I don't want to leave the dog at home alone and I don't want to give up visiting my grandchildren. My daughter refuses to talk about it. Please advise.

It is her prerogative, her home, I guess you must abide by her rules. I understand whet you mean about the friendship with your pet, but perhaps he would be happier at home, in his own surroundings, rather the separated from you by a door.

My dog is very well adjusted to being in her own home when I am gone.

"it's about boundaries and I have to accept hers without explanation."

She's right, except that common courtesy would dictate giving you an explanation. Maybe she doesn't want to get into an argument because she knows her reasons are not rational. But the bottom line is she can set whatever boundaries she wants.

As much as you love your dog, it is not a person, and it isn't unusual for people to have a pet-free home.

I doubt if you brought along a cousin, or family friend, that she would be forced to sit outside crying at the door. I wouldn't personally bring one of my dogs to a home unless the owners were comfortable and welcoming of it being there. Dogs don't have equal footing with humans, they are pets.

I don't know how often you visit, but I wouldn't be subjecting your dog to the anguish of being outside, when he wants to be inside with you. I don't know why you would put your dog in that position, knowing he wouldn't be welcome in the first place. It probably upsets your grandchildren, and that is not a very nice thing to do to them.

The house rules, are what they are, and clearly you are pushing the limits by bringing the dog anyway. If you have a friend, or neighbor, or responsible neighbourhood kid that you know, why not make arrangements for that person to stay with the dog, in your home.

I don't think your daughter owes you an explanation. Just keep the dog at home. Maybe the grandchildren can visit your home once in a while?