This thread has been a really good one. First of all I'm now 50 and it has made me think of when we had my daughters birthday parties. I worked at the time and didn't get alot of sleep the night before the parties. The next morning would be hectic, cooking, cleaning, getting the birthday girl ready and wanting everything just perfect for my little princess. Being so tired and nerves on end, I can see how this could happen. I'm sure it was more for show than pain. I think the mother should have first of all accepted responsibility for not watching her son better, second address the issue of how her son was brought to her, then if that wasn't an issue, explained to her son why puppies shouldn't be handled that way. This is if she was given the opportunity to do so. The thing I wonder is the effect this can have on the boy and the puppy. The puppy might be nervous of little boys, hopefully it wasn't so bad he will remember it, But if the child sees his mom and you are not friends anymore he might just remember it was because of what he done, lets face it, i am sure it has been discussed alot at his house, the story being told to everyone, (I am assuming here) and he is probally hearing it. I would like to think I would be concerned enough to send a note if she isn't answering her phone, letting her know you were concerned about what effect this might have on her son. You can agree to not be friends but at least let him see if you have a disagreement, it can be worked out and its ok to say I'm Sorry. Just a thought, I feel for both of you. Sharon |