Neighbor Steals Dog To Save It From Mistreatment
DEAR HARRIETTE: I stole my neighborÕs dog. HeÕs asking for the dog back, but I told him no. To add context to the situation, my neighbor has been mistreating this dog since he first got him over a year ago. The dog is too thin, his fur is unkempt and to top it all off, his owner leaves him outside all year round. We live in Michigan, and the weather can be freezing cold; even though he has a heated doghouse, it has been so sad to watch. One night a week ago, I sneaked into his yard and took the dog. I tried to hide him from my neighbor, but I wasn't successful because I live across the street from him.
Yesterday, my neighbor came banging on my door, asking for his dog back, and I refused. He threatened to call the cops, but I shot back with the fact that he would likely catch a charge for animal abuse if he did. Since bringing the dog into my home, IÕve been feeding him regularly, brushing out his fur and letting him stay inside where itÕs warm. The dog seemed nervous at first, but heÕs already starting to relax and trust me more, which makes me feel like I did the right thing morally, even if it was wrong legally. Should I stand my ground and refuse to give the dog back, or is there a better, more responsible way to handle this situation? -- Rescue Dog
DEAR RESCUE DOG: It seems dangerous for you to have stolen the dog, and the owner could retaliate. I recommend speaking to the ASPCA about offering the dog for rescue to them where it will be safe and can find another home that is not directly across the street from your neighbor. Or you might want to call the police. Right now, having that manÕs dog in your house is likely making him furious. ItÕs only a matter of time before he does something to you or your property in response to your theft.
DEAR HARRIETTE: I have been married for more than 30 years. My wife and I share pretty much everything, so there really arenÕt any secrets to keep. Recently, though, I discovered that my wife has a tendency to use random names (of co-workers, old friends, etc.) as usernames or passwords for different things. One that especially stood out to me was the first and last name of a former male co-worker used as her password for something important. I didnÕt recognize the name at first, so I asked who that was, and when she told me, I asked why his name is her password. She laughed and said she just chooses things she can remember. I didnÕt pry further, as it was clear to me that she didnÕt realize it was a big deal. Maybe after 30 years of marriage it shouldnÕt be, but it rubbed me the wrong way. Am I blowing this out of proportion? Should I ask my wife to change her passwords? -- The Little Things
DEAR THE LITTLE THINGS: Passwords are hard to remember and keep straight. I do not recommend that you ask your wife to change them before she will naturally be prompted to change them anyway. Let her have her system. If you two are comfortable in your life together, donÕt go looking for something that isnÕt there or isnÕt important.
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(Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions toaskharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)
Copyright 2026, Harriette Cole
COPYRIGHT 2026 Andrews McMeel Syndication. This feature may not be reproduced or distributed electronically, in print or otherwise without the written permission of Andrews McMeel Syndication.
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