1. My life is likely to last only 10 to 15 years,

any separation from you will be very painful.

2. Give me time to understand,

what it is you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me,

It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don't be angry with me for long.

Don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment. I only have you.

5. Talk to me even, if I don't understand your words.

I do understand your voice when it's speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me,

I'll never forget it.

7. Before you hit me,

remember that I have teeth that could easily have crushed the bones in your hand, but I chose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative,

ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I've been out in the sun too long, or my heart may be getting old and weak.

9. Take care of me when I get old.

You too will grow old one day.

10. Go with me on the difficult journeys,

never say. "I can't bear to watch it" or "Let it happen when I'm not there". Remember everything is easier for me when you are there.

Remember I Love You.

~Unknown~

We have the right to be full members of your family.

We thrive on social interaction, praise, and love.

We have the right to stimulation.

We need new games, new toys, new experiences, and new smells to be happy.

We have the right to regular exercise.

Without it, we could become hyper, sluggish ...or fat.

We have the right to have fun.

We enjoy acting like clowns now and then; don't expect us to be predictable all the time.

We have the right to quality health care.

Please stay good friends with a good vet!

We have the right to a good diet.

Like some people, we don't know what's best for us. We depend on you.

We have the right not to be rejected.

Just because of your expectations that we be great show dogs or watchdogs, hunters, or baby-sitters.

We have the right to receive proper training.

Otherwise, our good relationship could be marred by confusion and strife - and we could become dangerous to ourselves and others.

We have the right to guidance and correction.

Based on understanding and compassion, rather than abuse.

We have the right to live with dignity.

And to die with dignity when the time comes.

~Unknown~

A Dog's Prayer

Treat me kindly, my loved master, for no heart in the world is more grateful for kindness than the loving heart of me.

Please do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I lick your hand between the blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would have me do.

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 by waiting ear.

When it is cold and wet, please take me inside, for I am now a domesticated animal,no longer used to bitter elements.

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

Though if you had no home, I would rather follow through ice and snow than rest upon the softest pillow in the warmest home in all the land, for you are my idol, and I am your devoted worshipper.

Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for although I should not reproach you if were it dry, I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst.

Feed me clean food, that I may be 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, beloved master, should the Great Master see fit to deprive me of my health or sight, do not turn me away from you, Please,rather hold me gently in your arms as skilled hands grant me the merciful boon of eternal rest...and I will leave you knowing with the last breath I drew, my fate was ever safest in your hands.

~Unknown~