Serena...believe me, the dogs inside the pen are safe. The minute I hear one of them bark...I am up and checking. This is the country...we have guns. IF something were trying to harm my pups, it would be the last thing they do. As far as someone trying to harm them, by poison or something...that just isn't gonna happen. Once again...we are always a heartbeat away. My dogs HAVE to be outside when we have to go out. SORRY...but they would rip my house apart if left indoors....and I can love them to the ends of the earth...but that isn't gonna happen. A person can totally adore and love their dog, as I do...but there are times the dog has to be outside. It isn't the end of the world, nor a horrible act. I HATE when I see a poor little dog tied to a doghouse..and that's it's total life. That is not the case with my dogs. You know how much I admire you.....adore your knowledge.....but this is something that DOES have variables. (sp??) You cannot not possible feel that it is a 'NEVER' situation. Is it so wrong that my hubby doesn't always want to share the bed with a 'pack'....one of which snores to the hilt???? OH PLEASE. I didn't let my children sleep with us........read up on that and you will see I was correct. Now...say it is your opinion only that a dog should sleep indoors......and that's all it is. BUT....it isn't necessarily wrong. We all have opinions on how a dog should be treated. Hopefully we all strive to give them the best care and shower them with love. While I so admire you....I sometimes wonder why you cannot possibly EVER see any opinion but your own. I, too, have strong opinions...beliefs...ideals....BUT, I try to at least try to understand the other's thinking. I know, I know....you pride yourself on being blunt.................but hon, it doesn't ALWAYS mean you are right. Now.........I am still lovin ya, so hope you aren't too annoyed.