This discussion is a "no-brainer" for me. I have always said that I would sell my house/car/etc. to help my boys. It is almost a running joke with the Vet hospital. Andy is on some major meds that are very $$$$$. So when the Dr. said something about them and wanted to know if I wanted to continue the treatment (it has helped his allergies greatly) I of course looked at Andy and told him that he would have to pay for his own college because I was paying for his meds!

I had a room mate once who did not like pets/children etc. (she had a rough upbringing and this was her way of dealing) So when I came home from the Dayton area with this little puff ball of fur that grew into Andy, her first words were, "I'm telling you right now, I don't do Dog #$%#" Well I informed her that it was MY house she was living in and this was MY dog I was bringing into MY house and I didn't expect her to do a thing with him. Since then (about 7 years ago now) she has her own house and has 10 cats - most rescued btw. And she wouldn't give any of them up! It is amazing how we can all change our minds with just a bit if intervention.

The niece - she is young and stretching her legs....I was there at one time myself, and would just say things to get argumentitve so that I knew my opinion counted for something. She may never understand the ways of us here on PetTalk (I think we are all very much of one mind whether we all know it or not!) but she will grow up.

JMHO!