[CurlyDave]

...small dogs = x+36, so 42.5...

I would postulate that there were Z medium dogs, where Z is an odd number between 1 and 13. No dogs are harmed if this is done.

While this removes the need for a chainsaw, it is way beyond the age level of the assignment.

[Billthedrill]

It’s middle-schoolers, so I’m afraid we’re gonna have to leave the chainsaw in. Sorry, Fluffy (RRRRRRRRR!)