The lie? I was allergic to dogs.

Catherine is fearful of dogs while her best friend Sabrina loves them. Source: Supplied

‘I wish my feelings were validated’

It’s perfectly okay not to have an emotional bond with animals. I hope my emotions could receive more acknowledgment, as they are genuinely mine.

Sabrina and her daughter Charli are now very accommodating and, with each visit to their house, have slowly trained me to conquer my canine fears.

Sabrina and Catherine with Charli when she was a toddler. Source: Supplied

Sabrina:

While I’d never admit to playing favourites, I have been known to greet the dog first when I walk through the door.

Sabrina grew up with dogs and has a strong connection with them, including her dog Molly. Source: Supplied

Catherine and golden retrievers on the other hand? Not the best combo.

These days, we like to say we’ve got a ‘Catherine Protocol’ in place whenever she comes to visit.

The ‘Catherine Protocol’

Treats are always in our pockets. It’s bribery but our reward system is locked and loaded if things get wild.

Charli and Catherine celebrating a birthday. Source: Supplied

The best part of the Catherine Protocol is that Catherine knows we do it because we love her and want her to feel safe when she’s with us.