they need us more than we need them

this one's touchy...I miss all of my deceased animal companions.

10 Canine Commandments

1. My life is likely to last 10 to 15
years. Any separation
from you will be painful to me. Remember
that before
you buy me.
2. Give me time to understand what you
want from me.
3. Place your trust in me. It’s crucial
to my well-being.
4. Dont be angry with me for long, and
don’t lock me up
as punishment. You have your work, your
entertainment
and your friends. I only have you.
5. Talk to me sometimes. Even if I don’t
understand your
words, I understand your voice when it’s
speaking to me.
6. Be aware that however you treat me,
I’ll never forget it.
7. Remember before you hit me: I have
teeth that could
easily crush the bones of your hand, but
I choose not to
bite you.
8. Before you scold me for being
un-cooperative, obstinate
or lazy, ask yourself if something might
be bothering
me. Perhaps I’m not getting the right
food, or I’ve been
out in the sun too long, or my heart is
getting old and
weak.
9. Take care of me when I get old. You
too will grow old.
10. Go with me on difficult journeys.
Never say: “I can’t
bear to watch it”, or “Let it happen in
my absence.”
Everything is easier for me if you are
there.