The children loved to feed me; they gave me special treats.
They even let me sleep with them - all snuggled in the sheets.
I used to go for walks, often several times a day.
They even fought to hold the leash, I'm very proud to say!
These are the things I'll not forget - a cherished memory.
I now live in the shelter - without my family.
They used to laugh and praise me when I played with that old shoe.
But I didn't know the difference between the old one and the new.
The kids and I would grab a rug, for hours we would tug.
So I thought I did the right thing when I chewed the bedroom rug.
They said I was out of control and would have to live outside.
This I didn't understand, although I tried and tried!
The walks stopped, one by one; they said they hadn't the time.
I wish that I could change things; I wish I knew my crime.
My life became so lonely in the backyard, on a chain.
I barked and barked all day long to keep from going insane.
So they brought me to the shelter but were embarrassed to say why.
They said I caused an allergy, and then they each kissed me goodbye.
If I'd only had some training as a little pup.
I wouldn't have been so hard to handle when I was all grown up.
"You only have one day left", I heard a worker say.
Does that mean I have a second chance?
Do I go home today?
If you read the poem thru, then you understand why it's so important that you realize the responsibility that goes along with pet ownership. If you're unsure whether you'll be able to deal with the mischief that dogs and cats get into, it's best not to buy a cat or dog. Domestic animals have as much right to this planet as what we do, and they deserve to be in a happy family environment as well. They are very much capable of having feelings, and when they're abandoned or sent to the shelter, they're suddenly without a family. Before you buy a dog, cat, parrot, or other domestic pet, try to imagine yourself in this situation where you're abandoned and no longer are a part of a family. Then, when you decide that it's a situation you wouldn't want to be in, ask yourself this: Can I commit myself to this animal for the rest of it's natural life? If the answer is yes, then please do consider adopting from a shelter or taking in a rescue animal, please do not buy from a pet store!
Treat me kindly, my beloved master,
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 though I should 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 footstep falls upon my 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 ...and I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth...
though had you no home, I would rather follow you through ice and snow,
than rest upon the softest pillow in the warmest home in all the land...for you are my God...and I am your devoted worshipper.
Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for although I should not reproach you were it dry, 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 beloved master, should the Great Master see fit to deprive me of my health or sight, do not turn away from me.
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 draw, my fate was ever safest in you hands.
UNKNOWN
