The 10 commandments of dog stewardship
1. My life is likely to last 10 to 15 years. Any
separation from you will be painful for me. Remember that before you
adopt me.
2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.
3. Place your trust in me -- it's crucial to my
well-being.
4. Don't be angry at me for long, and don't lock me up
as punishment. You have your work, your entertainment, and your friends.
I have only you.
5. Talk to me sometimes. Even if I don't understand your
words, I do 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 that 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 uncooperative,
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. Remember - I love you!
Contributed by:
[email protected]
Go on to
Website of Note
Return to 2 April 2000 Issue
Return to Newsletters
** Fair Use Notice**
This document may contain copyrighted material, use of which has not been
specifically authorized by the copyright owners. I believe that this
not-for-profit, educational use on the Web constitutes a fair use of the
copyrighted material (as provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright
Law). If you wish to use this copyrighted material for purposes of your
own that go beyond fair use, you must obtain permission from the copyright
owner.
