Treat me kindly, my beloved friend, for no heart in all the world is more
grateful for kindness than the loving heart of mine.
Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick your hand
between blows, your patience and understanding will more 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 foot steps fall upon my
waiting ear.
Please take me inside when it is cold and wet, for I ask no greater glory
than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth.
Keep my pan filled with 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 no longer enjoy good health,
hearing, and sight, do not make heroic efforts to keep me going. I shall leave
this earth knowing with the last breath that I draw that my fate was always
safest in your hands...
I will always be your BEST FRIEND.