If you quit doing something because of someone's opinion, you'd never be able to do anything because no matter what, there's someone out there with an opposite view.
I have the problem with my own family where my dad is a jerk when it comes to animals. To him they are property (he raised horses all his life...don't know if that has anything to do with it) and I know he can't stand that we just got a yorkie and she stays in the house and sleeps with us. But you know what? If he doesn't like it, he can stay home.
However, if some clown ever insulted my dog, I would have no hesitation snapping back as I have an aggressive nature towards anyone who insults me or anyone in my family!
Luckily for everyone else, nobody has made any negative comments towards Pumpkin.
And take it from me, Gracie and Holly are adorable, no matter what anyone else says!