I’m not sure I could defend the use of a messenger bag instead of a “purse” as a mature choice, to begin with, but I was glad to see my materialism hasn’t progressed to the point where I care more for a leather bag than for the well-being of my pound puppy.
That said, he’s still not allowed within yards of my precious shoes and boots.
I will resist the dogs will be dogs reaction. I applaud you not giving him away at this point. I realize that if he gets into the shoe cache, he is dead meat.