Dear Abby:

Recently, my rather eccentric neighbor embarked on a unique gardening endeavor. Rather than planting conventional greenery, he turned his yard into a refuge for rescued wildlife.

At first, it seemed harmless, but now the situation is getting out of hand. His garden is drawing in a variety of animals like raccoons, skunks, and even the occasional coyote.

While I admire his intentions, I can’t help but worry about the safety of my dogs and little kids. They can get pretty scared when they come across these animals.

To add to my concerns, my cat has started behaving oddly. She stares at the wall, almost as if sensing something invisible.

This might sound silly, but it does make me anxious, especially after reading about how pets can react to changes in their environment.

My mother thinks I’m overreacting and suggests I just relax, which honestly only makes me feel more anxious.

Should I confront my neighbor over the wildlife situation, or is it better to just let it go? Am I overreacting about my cat’s behavior?

I’m worried that others might think I’m losing touch with reality. How do I strike a balance between voicing my concerns and keeping harmony in my neighborhood and family? – Overwhelmed in Ohio State

Dear Overwhelmed:

Your mother may believe you are overreacting, but what about the other neighbors? Are any of them facing similar issues? Is your neighbor’s project legal in your area?

Some communities have rules against feeding wildlife or even attracting them.

It might be a good idea to start doing some research online. If your anxiety continues to rise, consulting a mental health professional could also be beneficial.

Dear Abby:

I’ve been with my girlfriend, Ivy, for eight years. We mainly see each other on weekends since she lives and works in town.

She says she’s tied down with her house and daughter, unable to move here despite only working three days a week.

A few years ago, Ivy’s ex-husband came back into the picture when she relocated for work. She knows I’m not happy about it and I wish she would spend more time with me, but she insists she needs to focus on her daughter and her dog.

She rarely takes the initiative. Honestly, I’m tired of being the one to do the heavy lifting in our relationship.

I’m considering breaking up and moving on, but she’s integrated into my family, which complicates things. She’s aware of my issues with her, but doesn’t seem willing to change. – Only weekends in California

Dear Weekend Only:

You mentioned that your girlfriend’s ex-husband returned a few years back!? It sounds like they’ve reconciled.

This indicates where her priorities lie, and unfortunately, you seem not to be among them.

Don’t hesitate to explain your feelings to your family. Once they understand the full context, they can decide how they want to proceed with her.