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 although I should 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 your footsteps 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 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.

Author Unknown

Thank you to Kay L. for sending this into me - she recently had to say goodbye to an old friend, a Westie named McDuff, who was almost sixteen years old.

I had to have my childhood Westie, Tim, put to sleep at an old age because he was riddled with cancer. It is the hardest thing in the world to let go of a loyal friend - but it is also the most noblest and most responsible choice you can make to honour your pet with a painfree passing knowing he or she is comforted and much loved by you to the end. Even death is easier for your dog when you are present.

For those of you facing a similar heartbreaking choice - be strong and know you are making the right choice - a loving choice.