Mom's response is just what I was thinking!! Am I showing my age or what???

Actually, I have a different problem, which I why I don't take Honey to public places where there are strangers. She's a Golden Retriever, and everyone, kid and adult, assume that she is sweet and friendly (as one would expect from a Golden), but she's not. She's nervous and get very upset around strangers and I don't trust her to not bite in a strange situation (although she never has bitten anyone). I do understand your frustration, though, Amy, and taking a more positive approach would have been much better! At least he asked, though, which many thoughtless people don't do in my experience.

Logan