A DOG'S PLEA by Beth Norman Harris

Treat me kindly,
my beloved friend,
for no heart in all the world
is more grateful for the kindness
than the loving heart of me.

Do no break my spirit with a stick,
for though I might lick your hand between blows,
your patience and understanding
will 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 the sound of your footstep falls
upon my waiting ear.

Please take me inside when it is cold and wet,
for I am a domesticated animal,
no longer accustomed to 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 might 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.

In memory of our
sweet Java Bean
and all of our furieds
who have crossed
The Rainbow Bridge.

XOXO
Lilly, Piper, Carrleigh and Ivy