Oh, I am so happy to see someone as crazy as my hubby and I are! Our little Maltese, Gracie Olivia, my avatar, also has never ever been left alone except for errands, grocery shopping, etc. I know we are overprotective, could be called paranoid, but we just don't feel anyone is going to look out for her like we will. Plus, we really believe that if we were to leave her, she'd grieve to the point of not eating or drinking water. (We might not eat or drink either - LOL) Yeah, we don't take trips like we used to, but we would not change a thing. Where we go, she goes. If she is not welcome, then neither are we! The love and joy she has brought to us is immeasureable. And does she rule the roost? You better believe it! Someone asked me one time where she sleeps. I told them that she has a lovely king size bed that she graciously shares with us! Love love love my Gracie-girl! Furbabies rock ... and yours are precious!