DR. WALLACE: I have noticed that a good portion of your readers are consulting you regarding dating issues. I, at times, am shocked that parents permit so many teens under the age of 16 to become involved romantically at varying levels.

I am not a prude, nor was I unpopular in high school. As a matter of fact, I was very much the opposite. As a result, I have guided my daughter toward academic goals that I did not achieve because I didn't have a mother who devoted her time to my educational enlightenment.

My daughter graduates high school with honors in June and will start college this fall. Ever since she was in preschool, my husband and I have encouraged her to seize every opportunity available to her.

I strongly urge all parents to never let their teenagers begin dating under the age of 16 and I would suggest 17 or 18 as a more ideal age. Your comments, please. — Mother, Atlanta, Ga.

MOTHER: I'm glad your daughter has done well in school, but so do many young people who are allowed to date. You seem to be saying that teens must choose either academics or a social life, but, in truth, they must choose a balance of both. Parental guidance is needed to help them find a balance.

While age 16 is a reasonable age for a teen to start dating, making a teen wait until age 17 or 18 could hinder social growth.

It's also important to remember that there is no "one size fits all" approach to parenting. Love and respect are essential to the job; ironclad rules are not. Teens who are mature, trustworthy and dependable are capable of spending time with the opposite sex.

SAY YES TO A FAMILY PET

DR. WALLACE: Last weekend I went with my friend and her parents to the animal shelter to pick out a pet dog for her. They picked out a cute little Chihuahua and my friend was delighted. While there, I fell in love with a sweet little poodle. She looked so sad in a cage that it almost made me cry. Whenever I talked to her, she wagged her tail.

When I got home, I asked my mom if I could have this little poodle for a pet and she said no. When I asked why, she said because dogs require a lot of care and it takes a lot of money for food and veterinarian bills if it becomes sick.

When I pleaded with my mom to say yes, she said that she would think about it. What can I do to encourage her to say yes? I really want this little poodle. I've already named her Daisy! — Nikki, Columbia, Md.

NIKKI: Inform mom that you will forgo all other gifts and the money saved can be used to feed your poodle and keep her in good health.

I am strongly in favor of a family pet. This wonderful creature will bring you great joy and will become a welcome member of the family. The funds spent on maintaining a pet are funds well spent.

Make sure you show mom my response to your letter. When mom says yes — give her a big hug and let her know that you will take full responsibility of caring for Daisy.

Dr. Robert Wallace welcomes questions from readers. Although he is unable to reply to all of them individually, he will answer as many as possible in this column. Email him at [email protected]. To find out more about Dr. Robert Wallace and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.