A Pet's Ten Commandments

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years.  Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me. Don't be frustrated and impatient.

3. Place your trust in me.  It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment.  You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I have only you.

5. Talk to me.  Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand the tone of your voice when speaking to me.

6.. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me.  Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old and weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old  You too, will grow old and need love, care, comfort and attention.

10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please.  Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone.  Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.

modified from the original poem by Stan Rawlinson Doglistener.co.uk

~ take a moment today to thank God for your pets.  Enjoy and take good care of them.  ~

~ Life would be a much duller, less joyful experience without God's critters.~

Remember that they can't do a lot of things for themselves and that they depend on you to make their life a quality life!  

Kane & Sako in backyard

"Dogs are miracles with paws" ~ Susan Ariel Rainbow Kennedy

I rescued a human today.  

Her eyes met mine as she walked down the corridor peering apprehensively into the kennels. I felt her need instantly and knew I had to help her.

 I wagged my tail, not too exuberantly, so she wouldn't be afraid. As she stopped at my kennel I blocked her view from a little accident I had in the back of my cage. I didn't want her to know that I hadn't been walked today.

Sometimes the shelter keepers get too busy and I didn't want her to think poorly of them.

As she read my kennel card I hoped that she wouldn't feel sad about my past.

I only have the future to look forward to and want to make a difference in someone's life.  She got down on her knees and made little kissy sounds at me. I shoved my shoulder and side of my head up against the bars to comfort her. Gentle fingertips caressed my neck; she was desperate for companionship. A tear fell down her cheek and I raised my paw to assure her that all would be well.  Soon my kennel door opened and her smile was so bright that I instantly jumped into her arms. I would promise to keep her safe. I would promise to always be by her side. I would promise to do everything I could to see that radiant smile and sparkle in her eyes.

I was so fortunate that she came down my corridor. So many more are out there who haven't walked the corridors. So many more to be saved. At least I  could save one.

 I rescued a human today.