Hi Lori,

I think you are right. there is most definitely a greater chance of a fight breaking out in the "Dog House". I think that s just the nature of the forum. When you are talking about controversial subjects, you are going to get a broad range of opinions and some will be particularly strong. It's like the old Religion and Politics adage. People used to say never discuss Religion or Politics in a family gathering. I always thought that was silly... people were mature and adults could handle differing points of views. Boy, was I wrong!!! As I gotten older, I have seen so many fights break out at family events - Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving - it doesn't matter. Bring up Politics, President Bush or the war in Iraq - comments start out innocent enough, then get sharper and before you know it - somebody's really mad. Sometimes refusing to talk anymore! Ka-Razy!!!

Same with the "Don't sell a car to a family member". We sold my wife's used VW Rabbit to my brother shortly after my wife and I got married. It was older and had lots of mileage and so we sold it for something like $500.00. A few weeks later, he burned the clutch out (I don't think he really knew how to drive the manual). $7-800.00 for a new one. I still think to this day that he thinks we duped him and he got shafted!!!

Oh yeah, and don't lend money to a relative. If they need it (I mean really need it), don't lend it - just "give" it to them. That way you won't feel bad when they don't pay you back. And one day when you are down and out, I'm pretty sure they will come to your aid!!!

But anywho... I think that this forum is different than the strictly pet issue posts. Feelings are less strong and folks are more inclined to feel "whatever" - although I have seen a few fights break out tere too!!!