Treat me kindly, my beloved master, for no
heart in all the world is more
grateful for kindness than 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
footsteps 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.
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