Why do people in LW divorce/btb stories almost never have pets?

[MillieDynamite]

Denny's and IHOP are gathering places for after the bar. Warming up pit stops for streetworkers, where they can get food and coffee at any point during or after their work day. They are places where even the upper crust is just an average Joe or Jo. Everyone has been to one; everyone has seen a mixture of classes, from high to those with no class a'tall. Readers can relate, writers draw on their own experiences. We've all seen the spontaneous show of emotions, loving kisses, inappropriate groping, loud arguments, and hushed whispers between lovers. They are universal experiences.