Treat me kindly, my beloved friend,
for no heart in all the world is more grateful
for kindness than the loving heart that
beats inside of me.
Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though
I should 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
footsteps fall upon my waiting ear.
Please take me inside with you when it is
cold and wet, for I am a domesticated animal,
no longer accustomed to the 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 that I may stay well, to romp and
play and do your bidding: to walk by your
side and protect you with my life should
your life be in danger.
And, my friend, when I am very old and no
longer enjoy good health, hearing, and sight,
do not make heroic efforts to keep me with
you. 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.
Anonymous
