Ten Commandments for Responsible Dog Owners

1. My life is likely to last 10 - 15 years. Spend lots of time with me as I won't be around forever.

2. Give me time to understand what you want from me. Do not break my spirit with your temper, though I will always forgive you. Your patience will teach me more effectively. Place your trust in me It's crucial for my well being.

3. Please have me spayed or neutered.

4. Treat me kindly, my beloved friend, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for your kindness than mine. Don't be angry with me for long, and don't lock me up as punishment. After all, you have your job, your friends, your entertainment. I only have you.

5. Speak to me often. Even if I don't understand your words, I understand your voice when it speaks to me. Your voice is the sweetest sound I ever hear, as you must know by my enthusiasm whenever I hear your footsteps.

6. Take me in when it's cold and wet. I'm a domesticated animal and I am no longer accustomed to the bitter elements. I ask for little more than your gentle hands petting me. Keep my bowl filled with water. Feed me good food so that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding. By your side, I stand ready, willing and able to share my life with you, for that is what I live for. I'll never forget how well you've treated me.

7. Please don't hit me. Do not push me to the point where I need to defend myself. Be aware that however you treat me, I will forgive you, but I will never forget.

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 out in the sun too long, or my heart may be getting weak.

9. Take care of me when I get old. You too, will grow old.

10. When I am old or when I no longer enjoy good health, please do not make heroic efforts to keep me going. I am not having fun. Just see to it that my trusting life is taken gently. And be with me on that difficult journey when it's time to say goodbye. Never say, "I just can't bear to watch" or "let it happen in my absence". Everything is easier for ME when you are there. I will leave this earth knowing with my last breath that my fate was always safest in your hands. I love you.