Grandma Peg

Glad you are standing your ground Susan. Hope the family understands and that Meadow will be welcomed as one of the family.

Krystyna

Susan, I would absolutely stand with Meadow -- and I'd hope your DH will as well. It's not right to separate family on the holidays. Hopefully you can come to an understanding about it -- and if not -- be sure the entire family knows why you won't be there.

Beeboop71

Susan I'm with everyone else. Stand your ground. Meadow is not just any animal she is your guide dog and she is there to help you. The fact that they would even ask you not to bring the dog is outright appalling. I personally would not want to go even if they change their mind but that's me and knowing my husband he would be by my side too and would not go, family or not. Family is supposed to be supportive and understanding not selfish and if the reason is something to the effect that they don't want a dog in their million dollar home then that tells me family means nothing to them. Hope I'm not being to forward but I felt terrible for you when I read that. Hope it all works out.

buslady

That's beautiful, who wouldn't love to see it in their omg. Unless, of course, you live in the tropics. Lol]

Up North

The only clue I can think to give is my SP lives Far West of me!!

SharonAnne

Segasal - My opinion is pretty much the same. 1st talk to your DH to get his thoughts and complete support for your mutual decision. Have you ever met his Aunt? Ever talked to her? Think positive - maybe she wants to talk about your special needs and understand your relationship with Meadow. However, it is just as likely that she is worried about animal hygiene, fleas, shedding, etc. Still, I think I would begin to talk to her as if she has an open, caring mind more concerned with people than her possessions. If she says you cannot bring Meadow, then I would not go visit, and thus antagonize her. Meadow's training/bonding is way too important to both your futures. If you leave him at this early stage of your training, he will definitely be confused and would likely suffer a possibly irreversible setback. I think he already knows he is supposed to guard you 24/7/365. Leaving him this early in the relationship may ruin it completely. Perhaps in 6 months to a year, it might not matter. Still, he is your family and a beloved necessity, not a luxury. Aunt will have to understand that. Maybe a compromise might work. While you are eating or staying in one room, you may not need Meadow as much, and perhaps Auntie will consent to leaving him in one comfortable warm room rather than let him have what she feels might be the run of the house - maybe a laundry room or a mud room. First of all though, you need to talk as calmly and reassuringly as possible, and assess the situation before making judgements or decisions.

I like Laquita's idea of handing out information pages and maybe you could even ask if other guests have any concerns (maybe allergies, babies, etc), so you can further reassure her of what can be done to keep the concerns to a minimum.

Good luck with whatever you do, and I'm looking forward to hearing about the outcome.

Anastasia - How funny that you like heavy stuff. I love jackets, layers, lots of blankets, etc as well. The only heavy thing I don't like is bulky, heavy pierced earrings. I'm always afraid they'll rip my ears out.

Vanogay - Praying you do not need to suffer through surgery (and ultimately setting off airport sirens - lol - not very funny, I know). Keep us posted.

luvstoquilt

I am not so far from Chicago..want to leave Meadow with me while you go see your relatives? Peach (my cat that hates other cats but loves dogs) and I would be happy to host Meadow! You and your husband can stay at my home with Meadow and if you choose you can leave Meadow with me and go to see your relatives.

Up North

Aww lovstoquilt that is so sweet of you but her in laws do need to know that Meadow IS her eyes. If she had artificial legs would they want her to leave them home because they may offend someone? I say either they both go or neither.

marytoddliz

Susan, I hope they change their mind and allow Meadow to go with you. My prayers are with you because even if you have good reason taking a stand can be tough, but you might just find you have to set your own traditions. But whatever happens keep us posted and have a wonderful time~

Nelco

Just wanted to let my SP know that i will not be able to send out your box until the 15th or 16th as i am out of town and all your goodies are are my apt