I used an old screen door between the kitchen and the dining room when the dogs were pups. I was fortunate when I first ended up with 4 dogs to raise by myself and work too - because I have a large, shady fenced yard and was able to just leave the basement door open to the yard in case of bad weather. I had to be gone 10 hrs a day and the guilt would have been intolerable had I not had those options. Did you and your husband discuss this before bringing dear little Lila home?