A Dog's Plea

Treat me kindly my beloved friend, for no heart in all the world is more
grateful than the loving heart of me.

Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick your hands
between blows-Your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me
those 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 footsteps fall upon my ear.

Please take me inside when I am cold and wet. I am a domesticated animal
and no longer accustomed to the bitter elements.

I ask for no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beneath
the hearth.

Keep my pan filled with fresh water-for I cannot tell you when I thirst.

Feed me clean food 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 dear friend, when I have grown old, or become very ill, no longer
enjoying good health, hearing and sight-do not make heroic efforts to keep
me in this world. Please see that my life is taken gently. I shall leave this
world knowing with the last breath I take, that my fate was always safest in
your hands.

Author Unknown