Breach of Contract
Dear Frankie,
My parents adopted me when they got married, and those early years together were magical. Laughter filled every corner of our lives. We were always off on an adventure — camping under the stars, sailing across sparkling lakes, swimming until we shivered, or just hanging out at home.
I remember the day we went tobogganing, the snowball fight, and how proud I felt helping my dad drag the toboggan back up the hill.
Back then, it felt like we could never get enough time together.
Everything changed when the baby arrived.
Recently, I overheard my parents talking about the guilt they feel for not giving me as much attention or sharing those special moments as before. They lamented that there just weren’t enough hours in the day for everyone. I have mixed feelings. Part of me gets that the baby needs them, but another part feels left out and forgotten. What do I do with all these feelings?
Woodley
Dear Woodley,
It happens all the time when dog parents have a kid. Kids come first with the humans. You do wonder, given the stories you hear about the terrible things some kids do, that makes their parents’ lives miserable.
Unfortunately, the old days are not coming back. But that doesn’t mean you have to roll over and take it lying down. Let them know you are not pleased. When you are out for a walk, and they want to cut it short, refuse to go home by sitting or lying down, or pulling away, until they agree to walk for a few more minutes.
If they are sitting on the couch, climb up and put your paw on their arm or leg and keep it there until they respond.
Get your ball or a toy and drop it at their feet. If they ignore you, pick it up and drop it in their lap.
In other words, make it easy for them to engage with you and give you the attention you want and deserve.
Best, Frankie
© 2026 Geneva Woodruff
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