I found this on another site, I thought I'd share.
A Dog's Prayer
Treat
me kindly, my beloved master, 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 should lick your
hand between the blows, your patience and understanding will
more quickly teach me the things you would have me do.
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
footstep falls upon my waiting ear.
When it
is cold and wet, please take me inside... for I am now a
domesticated animal, no longer used to bitter elements...
and I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at
your feet beside the hearth... though had you no home, I
would rather follow you through ice and snow than rest upon
the softest pillow in the warmest home in all the land...
for you are my god... and I am your devoted worshiper.
Keep my
pan filled with fresh water, for although I should not
reproach you were it dry, 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,
beloved master, should the Great Master see fit to deprive
me of my health or sight, do not turn me away from you.
Rather hold me gently in your arms as skilled hands grant me
the merciful boon of eternal rest...and I will leave you
knowing with the last breath I drew, my fate was ever safest
in your hands.
--Beth Norman Harris
