Has she asked about the dog or to have a photo? If not, then you are using the dog for emotional leverage. It is a form of pursuit. You want to touch her emotions she has for the dog, in hopes it will trigger a response.
Look, there is no need to assure her you still want to work on the M. Don't you think she knows it?
It is not about what you feel should work in your M. It is about doing the work that gets the right results. Do what works!
