A Doggone Scare

(My sister adopted a rescue dog whose name happened to be the same as her daughter’s. She rings me one day.)

Sister: “I’m a bit sad today, [Niece’s Name] died yesterday.”

Me: “WHAT?!”

Sister: “Oh, my god, so sorry! I meant [Niece’s Name] the dog died yesterday.”

Me: “Oh, s***, you almost gave me a heart attack. I am sorry that [Niece’s Name] died. Have you told Mum yet?”

Sister: “No, not yet. I’m about to.”

Me: “May I suggest that you don’t start with [Niece’s Name] died yesterday?”