[stboz]

You haven't been around our cats. There is not a screen in the windows without scratch-tears. The backdoor jam has become a scratching post. There are tufts of "cat-feathers" everywhere. The yard abounds with moles and chipmunks, but the da*n cats are too busy "making their mark" indoors.

They know we don't want them acting the way they do, because if they're "up-to-something," they quit and retreat as soon as we enter the room. Our cats do not improve my cardiovascular anything.

[stboz]

I think I'll whip up a batch of tamales tonight. I know just where to start.

[southerngrit]

I'm with you! As the 'mother' of a senile, toothless dog who has lost control of her bodily functions (thereby forever ruining my carpet) and two really b#tchy cats who are the most devious creatures on earth, I have come to the conclusion that my little darlings are going to be the death of me (lol).

My husband says I can't replace the carpet until the dog dies. Every morning we watch her as she sleeps to see if she is still among the living. I feel like a ghoul. My kids, who have grown up and moved out 'don't have room' at their house for these childhood pets.

Does anyone know the lifespan of cats and dogs? I'm too weak to have them put down.

[goodieD]

Ditto that for my pets! We have to keep the bloody cats locked in the garage at night lest they jump on my husband's broken leg.. we keep the dachsund in the other bedroom at nite for the same reason.. the big dog likes to play fight with the little dog, making the most hideous growling noises.. and they all chase each other through the house at every opportunity.. lower stress my eye.