A Dog's Plea

Treat me kindly, my beloved friend,
for no heart in all the world is more greatful for your kindness
than the loving heart of me.
Do not break my spirit with a stick,
for though I will lick your hand between blows,
your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you will want me to learn.
Speak to me often, for your voice is the world's sweetest music,
and you must know this by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footstep falls upon my waiting ear.
Please take me inside when it is cold and wet,
for I am a domesticated animal,
No longer used to the bitter elements
and I ask for no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth.
Keep my pan filled with fresh water
for I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst.
Feed me clean food so that I will stay well, to romp and play and walk my your side,
and stand willing and able to protect you with my life
should your life be in danger.
And, my friend, when I am very old and I no longer enjoy good health, hearing, and sight
do not make heroic efforts to keep me going.
I am not having any fun.
Please see that my trusting life is taken very gently.
I shall leave this earth knowing with the last breath I draw,
that my fate was always safest in your hands.


-Author Unknown