The XX Factor: What women really think.

Did the Obamas only get a puppy because Michelle stays home? ... or, discrimination against working (dog) moms

As the entire world knows, the Obamas recently got a six-month-old Portuguese water puppy named Bo. In an exclusive, I've learned that this might be only because Michelle is a stay-at-home mom.

A friend of mine—who adopted an infant a few years ago, as a working mom—yesterday received this email when she applied to adopt a puppy:

Thank you for your interest in Good Dog Rescue. I'm afraid that our organization's policy on puppy adoptions is very stringent due to the exceptional needs of the pups. They wish for a stay-at-home mom that can help the pup grow. They feel you would qualify for one of our older dogs at least 18 months or older. I'm very sorry to disappoint you, but I hope you understand.

Remember—social workers approved my friend to adopt an infant human. Apparently policies for puppies are stricter. One concludes that, had Michelle O. held a job, Malia and Sasha would have been denied their puppy.

Would a working dad have received this email? Inquiring minds want to know.