Ten Commandments of a Responsible Pet Owner

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years.
Any separation from you is likely to be painful.
2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.
3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.
4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment.
You have your work, your friends, your entertainments.
But, I have only you.
5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.
6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.
7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I have teeth that could easily crush the bones in your hand, and yet I choose not to bite you.
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 in the sun too long
or my heart might be getting old or weak.
9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too will grow old.
10. On the difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.

Message edited 6/18/2008 4:28:55 PM.

Re: Ten Commandments of a Responsible Pet Owner

Re: Ten Commandments of a Responsible Pet Owner

number 10 kills me....

I do not know if I will be able to "go with" sandy when that time comes. I pray that I never have to make that decision

And, now I feel bad for scolding her this morning for getting into the garbage......I will have to make it up to her tonight, lots of extra love

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...as I sit at my desk with tears streaming down my face ....

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You are killing me
This is so sad. Makes me think of all the dogs that are not treated well.

#10 is so sad. I do not want to ever make the decision to put my MIA down. I really don't know if can watch.

But I will be there for her

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OMG

#10 is the worst, the un-thinkable

Re: Ten Commandments of a Responsible Pet Owner

esp. #10

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Posted by Babe49

...as I sit at my desk with tears streaming down my face ....

Re: Ten Commandments of a Responsible Pet Owner

for all the mistreated animals

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# 10..I held Max when he went..I had to

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Jeez that was emotional!

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i thought i was the only one crying

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WHY do I read these things??

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#10, the hardest of all. i've held 4 so far as they began that journey and i have one that is going to be 14 soon. while she is still vital and active i see changes in her and i know the day will come for her. i will hold her as well. it breaks my heart but i just cant let her do this alone.

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Didn't mean to make everyone so sad by posting this!

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10 is so sad----they give us unconditional love---and they don't ask for much back---as I sit here with tears in my eyes thank you

Message edited 6/18/2008 6:21:08 PM.

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#4 Got me the most for some reason.

You're killing me with this.

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OMG #10 is horrible-I dont think I can do that when the time comes

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Thanks for the morning cry