No one knows who wrote this, but I framed it and it hangs on my wall. Beware: it WILL make you cry!
Treat me kindly, by beloved friend, 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 would lick your hand between blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would like me to learn. 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. I ask for no greater glory than the privilege of sitting by your feet wherever you are. Keep my pan filled with fresh water for I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst. Feed me good food so that I can romp and play and do your bidding, as I walk by your side, and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my life, should your life be in danger. And, My friend, when I am old and no longer enjoy good health, do not make heroic efforts to keep me going, for I am not happy. Please see that my trusting life is taken gently. I shall leave this life knowing, with the last breathe that I take, that my face was always safest in your hands.