Living with a pet might be difficult if roommates have different standards for hygiene. Our reader’s affection for her dog conflicts with her sister’s desires, resulting in disagreements over shared objects. While she treats her dog like a member of the family, her sister is unable to overcome her fear of germs. Tensions are rising, and the sister’s frustration has reached a boiling point.
We got a message from our reader.
My sister and I live together. I use our towels to wipe my dog and let him eat from our plates at the table. My sister is germophobic, and she gets angry because she thinks my dog is dirty. I always make sure to vaccinate him on time and wash him almost every day. She was especially furious when I used her hairbrush to comb my dog after a bath.
She grabbed the hairbrush and threw it in the trash. She started shouting, saying that I’m treating “this animal” as if he were my son. I just love my dog, and I don’t understand why she makes such a fuss about it. The dog was clean – I’d just washed him. I wouldn’t have used her hairbrush if he was dirty.
Thank you for your message! It’s a hard situation, but we’re here to help.
Respect her boundaries.
Your sister is germophobic, and this is a major problem for her. Living with someone who has this kind of sensitivity requires some adaptations to keep the peace. It may appear that she is overreacting, but it is crucial to accept her level of comfort. Avoid using shared goods for your dog, such as her hairbrush or towels, as this can have a negative impact on her sense of cleanliness and safety.
Get separate dog supplies.
It’s a good idea to get certain dog-specific goods, such as a different brush, towels, and bowls. This allows you to continue caring for your dog in the way you desire without causing problems. Having stuff designated specifically for your pet means your sister will not have to worry about shared items being used for the dog.
Understand her point of view.
To you, your dog is a clean, cherished part of your life. Sharing personal belongings with a pet might be quite uncomfortable for someone afraid of germs. Try to see things from her perspective; it may help you discover a solution that works for both of you.
Keep your space clean.
If you continue to share a home, make sure your dog’s space is always tidy and well-kept. Keeping the dog’s stuff, such as bedding, food bowls, and toys, separated can help to preserve order and hygiene. By doing so, you are not only honoring your sister’s desire for cleanliness but also demonstrating that your dog has no effect on the hygiene of the rest of the house.
