Hi Dr. Laura,

I heard your phone call with the owner of a sick dog who was going to have to put it down.  Here is a poem our vet gave to us when our dog died. It still makes me cry!!  - Elisabeth

A PET'S PLEA

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

Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick your hand between blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would have me 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.

Please take me inside when it's cold and wet, for I am a domesticated animal, no longer accustomed to bitter elements. I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth.

Keep my dish filled with fresh water, for I cannot tell you when I suffer from 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, my friend, when I am old and no longer able to enjoy good health, hearing and sight, do not make heroic efforts to keep me going. I am not having fun. Please see that my trusting life is taken gently. I shall leave this earth knowing that with the last breath I draw, my fate was always safest in your hands.