Melissa,
I can't tell if I'm the first guy to respond or not but from the usernames I see, I think I am. So let me give you a guy's take on it. OK, he says he doesn't think you need another animal in the house right now. Fine, find out why he feels this way. Does he feel like it will be more work on him? Does he feel that it will take more time and attention away from him? Does he just feel you don't have enough lovin' to go around with a new puppy in the house? Just try to better understand why he feels this way. I'm not saying to give in to him; only to try and understand his motivation a little better and take it into account. Just don't dismiss it.
In the end, let him know that going along with you on this one even if he doesn't agree, maybe especially if he doesn't agree, is a great way to build up points in the old emotional bank account and that you'll remember the next time he does something stupid or thoughtless. You know we guys are an inherently stupid lot that are constantly doing and saying things that get us into hot water with the ladies in our lives and are in constant need of bailing out and forgiveness. Jokingly remind him of this and let him know, within reason, you'll be a little more forgiving when he has his next bout of male pattern stupidity and I'll bet him comes right around. If not, well, there's absolutely no hope for him at all and there's nothing whatsoever I can do for him or you.
Hopefully this voice of male wisdom and experience will help you get through to him.
- Byron |