"A Dog's Plea"
Back in the early 90's it came time to have my vet (dear friend) put to sleep my retired working GS at the age of 11. Cancer. After doing so my friend gave me this which I have in turn shared with many othes since I received it. No one had ever read this before so many out here may not have either. The author is unknown and trust me, I have tried numerous times on Google to find them. Sharing this as it helped me and many others since I first received it. I'd drop in the MS Word document but wasn't sure if that world work or not.
A Dog’s Plea
In Memory of
Treat me kindly, my beloved friend, for no heart in 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. 119
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 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 that 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 might 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 taking gently. I shall leave this Earth knowing with the last breath I draw that my fate was always safest in your hands. 342