ELB called last night to tell me that his house was broken into. SIL is
really freaked out, and I can't say I blame her. They took her laptop
(a gift from her father who can't really afford it), and a crucifix her
grandmother gave her. Their spare key was missing, and they later found
it outside the door, under something. Disconcerting, because it sounds
like whoever got in was planning on returning.

Anyway, SIL no longer feels safe in the house, and the only options are
to either move, or to get a dog who would be a deterrent (they currently
have a Boston Terrier). They only moved to this house 6 months ago, and
don't know if they can break the lease. Besides, they moved to this
place because it was considered a safe neighborhood. I know that this
is a really lousy reason for getting another dog, but am not sure
whether I should talk him out of it. I know that he can afford the dog,
and whatever his shortcomings, ELB is definitely a dog person, and will
take good care of it.

He is asking me for breed recommendations, and I suggested that they
sleep on it, but any big dog with a large enough bark will do. He will
go through rescue, and will get an adult dog if it comes to that. The
biggest concern for me is the SIL. She loves their current dog, but is
concerned about how much she sheds, and I can't think of any
intimidating looking dog (they know that they don't need an intimidating
dog) who won't shed, or will shed less than a Boston.

Aaaack!

Suja