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 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
footstep falls upon my waiting ear.
Please take me inside when it is cold and wet, for I am no longer accustomed to bitter
elements. I ask no greater glory than 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 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.
1963 Field Enterprises Inc |
