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 can not 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