A Dog's Plea

Treat me kindly, my beloved friend, for no heart

in all the world is more grateful for

kindness than the loving heart of me.

Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though

I might lick your hand between blows, your

patience and understanding will more quickly

teach me the things you would have me learn.

Speak to me often, for your voice is the

world's sweetest music, as you must know 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

accustomed to bitter elements. I ask 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 may stay well, to

romp and play and do your bidding, to walk by

your side and stand ready, 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 gently. I shall leave this

earth knowing with the last breath I draw

that my fate was always safest in your hands.