Pet peeves

How pet lovers can avoid driving non-pet people bonkers.

By Peggy Post

We are a nation of pet lovers. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, 60% of homes have a pet; only about 30% of households have children. Some people take the love a little too far: Their pets accompany them everywhere -- to dinner parties, on airplanes, to the mall, to restaurants and even to religious services.

When pets are given equal billing with people, awkward situations ensue that can damage friendships, alienate family members and leave others wondering whether the pet owner has lost all sense of comportment. But given the close relationships between many people and their animal companions, here are some guidelines for pet ownership that respect everyone:

Don't assume your pet is welcome wherever you are. If your dog is invited to the picnic, your host will let you know. Never ask if you can bring your pet, especially when you are an overnight guest in someone's home.

No one likes cat hair pâté. Cats on the countertop and dogs on the sofa can be a turnoff for guests. Remember: Not everyone is an animal lover, so keep your pets contained when you have company, and vacuum up the dog hair before guests arrive.

Take care of business. Always clean up after your pet. And make sure Poochie doesn't make deposits on the neighbor's lawn.

Peggy Post has a very well-behaved yellow Lab named Nutmeg.