"Jean B." > wrote in message
> I actually contemplate getting a dog precisely because one meets more
> people that way--and the exercise is mandatory even in foul weather. Of
> course, the prospect of going out in hideous weather is not appealing, but
> still.... People do it, and I could do it.

Sure you could When a wee face looks up at you .....

> The other day I was in a shop where I saw a Silky Terrier that weighed all
> of 4 pounds. Sooo cute! But then I remind myself that I have shy cats,
> at least 1 of which would totally freak out if there was a dog here.

All my dogs are rescue dogs. There are so many lovely ones that need a kind
home. I do hope you think of that if you ever decide to have one