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Oh please! Animal abuse as a recurring theme? Is there anything you won't find in the strip to use against Lynn? Please lighten up.

Jeremy, Calgary, AB

Dear Paul, I've had dogs that loved their brushing, and dogs that put up with it and dogs that hated it with every fiber of their being. They all got brushed regardless. Sometimes it is really hard work, and can get frustrating. Farley looks exactly how our dog looked, all google eyed and I probably looked like Elly, with sweat pouring off me! After the brushing, there some lovely cuddle time, then treats. This is not animal abuse; believe me, you know not of what you speak, sir. This is simply a woman with yet one more chore added to her list.

Gail H, North Vancouver, BC

Paul, if you were watching a video of the first four panels of Sunday's strip, with a real dog and a real woman with those expressions and/or behavior, you might be justified in your complaint. This is a comic strip. The attitudes, expressions and actions are meant to be funny. No more or less than that. It isn't a social commentary or a how-to manual for human behavior.No dog was injured or abused in the making of this strip.

Jan C, Victorville, CA

Concerning the "dog abuse"; on the Sunday strip there are several points in favor of Farley not minding the brushing. 1. He did not run away when Elly paused to clean out the brush 2. He rolled over, exposing more of his fur; that's what I assosiate with an animal enjoying the attention it's getting.

Rachel, IL

In response to Paul S. about "dog abuse..."

First of all, this is a comic strip. The emotions that are displayed are abbreviated compared to real life. Of course Farley looked a little shocked. You can be the most wonderful pet owner, but some pets just don't like being cleaned.

Secondly, your accusations are sad. Lynn has portrayed constant love and affection to Farley and all the animals living in the Patterson's home. Whether it was a rabbit, a cat, a dog or some other "critter," there is always tenderness displayed. Yes, animals can do things we wouldn't like (such as get into an argument with a skunk), and we may yell, but that doesn't mean we, as owners, hate them.

I'm the proud owner of an eleven-year-old black lab that I may have to put to sleep this week due to a terrible ear infection that won't go away. I've loved that dog since he came into my family. I've also yelled at him for digging up flowers and fought to give him a bath (he loves to swim but hates to be scrubbed down), but I would still love to have him forever.

Lynn portrays life in a very realistic manner. Perhaps you need to understand that a little better.

Jim I, Bloomington, IN

I am offended by women being referenced by the term "girls". I thought the whole idea behind reworking your comic was to update it. Please do not belittle females. Thank you.

Clara H, Norfolk, VA

Poor Elly, she got shafted by her own Hubby when he was talking to his Friend about how many "women" he had working for him, Elly yelled Like you COUNTED ME. I felt bad for her though, she didn't want to Cook but she did.

Chuck B, OH

I've got two words for Elly: Anger Management.

Barbara R, LA

um, yeah....we all know that ted is a bad influence on john. i'd also like to take this moment to say to some of you:"lighten up!" i know this isa very real-to-life comic strip,but it's also just that, a comic strip. maybe we all shouldn't read too much into it. except of course, the serious parts. but i would try not to figure out (take too seriously) the humorous parts.everyone w/kids raises them differently, that's just how it is!

on a side note, lynn, i'vebeen reading fborfw since i was a teenager, and we have all your books! my dad gave my mom a print of a strip of yours for her birthday, and she loves it! thank you for all you do, and for putting your heart and soul into for better or for worse!

Meg, ME

Dear Lynn, Loved this morning's cartoon. My husband and I both laughed, because he did just that to me. As he told his staff, "Well, I bring my check home and give it to her." He did ... for many, many years. Now retired, we enjoy reading your cartoons. Thank you for your cartoons on Ellie's parents, done with love and gentleness.

J.M., Reno, NV

"For Better or For Worse" is not a column. It's a comic strip.

Katje B, Albany, NY