Zero Tolerance
Dear Frankie,
I have been attending doggy day care, trouble-free, for years. Since my little brother, Mascot, started attending, I’ve been doing nothing but damage control for his bad behavior.
If he isn’t pushing into the front of the cafeteria line, he’s joining games uninvited, or having tantrums if he isn’t chosen for a team.
At first, my friends were willing to give him a pass because he was my kid brother. But they are getting tired of his antics and want to put him in his place. Should I let them?
Biff
Dear Biff,
Your parents named him Mascot? He doesn’t sound like mascot material to me. Mascots are charming and engaging, and they enhance their team’s image. Maybe your parents thought that he would live up to his name.
The last thing someone with a behavior problem needs is a pass. I suggest you tell your friends you are willing for them to apply some appropriate social pressure.
I recommend they call him out when he cuts in and escort him to the back of the line. I also think they should praise him when he goes to the back of the line and waits for his turn. When he joins a game uninvited, they should stop the game and make it clear that they decide who plays, not him. When he does ask them to play, they should also praise him for following the rules. As for the tantrums, they should walk away and not give him any attention.
It appears that Mascot hasn’t been taught how to act appropriately or held accountable for his behavior. Maybe all he needs to be his best self is for his bad behavior not to be tolerated, and his good behavior to be noticed and complimented.
You never can tell, he might even become a real team mascot.
Best, Frankie
© 2026 Geneva Woodruff
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