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 kindness than the loving heart of me.

Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I might 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 the sound
of your footstep falls upon my waiting ear.

Please keep 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 besides
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
heath, hearing and sight, do not make heroic efforts to keep me
going. I am not having any fun. Please see to it that my life is taken
gently. I shall leave this earth knowing with the last breath I drew
that my fate was always safest in your loving hands....