Speak to me often for your voice is the world’s sweetest music, as you know by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footstep falls upon my waiting ear. Please take me inside when it’s 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 stand ready, and able to 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 going. I am no longer
enjoying this life. Please see
that my trusted life is taken gently and peacefully, I shall leave this earth knowing with
the last breath I draw, that my fate was always safest in your hands..