The Power of the Dog
by
Rudyard Kipling

There is sorrow enough in the natural way
From men and women to fill our day;
And when we are certain of sorrow in store,
Why do we always arrange for more?
Brothers and sisters, I bid you beware
Of giving your heart to a dog to tear.

Buy a pup and your money will buy
Love unflinching that cannot lie–
Perfect passion and worship fed
By a kick in the ribs or a pat on the head.
Nevertheless it is hardly fair
To risk your heart to a dog to tear.

When the fourteen years which Nature permits
Are closing in asthma, or tumour, or fits,
And the vet’s unspoken prescription runs
To lethal chambers or loaded guns,
Then you will find–it’s your own affair–
But … you’ve given your heart to a dog to tear.

When the body that lived at your single will,
With its whimper of welcome, is stilled (how
still!)
When the spirit that answered your every mood
Is gone–wherever it goes–for good,
You will discover how much you care,
And will give your heart to a dog to tear.

We’ve sorrow enough in the natural way,
When it comes to burying Christian clay.
Our loves are not given, but only lent,
At compound interest of cent per cent.
Though it is not always the case, I believe,
That the longer we’ve kept ‘em, the more do we
grieve:
For, when debts are payable, right or wrong,
A short-term loan is as bad as a long–
So why in–Heaven (before we are there)
Should we give our hearts to a dog to tear?

TEN COMMANDMENTS FOR A RESPONSIBLE PET OWNER

(From a pet’s point of view)

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years.  Any separation from you will be very painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want from 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, and your entertainment.  I only have you.

5. Talk to me.  Even if I don’t understand your words, I understand your voice when it’s speaking to me. 

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I’ll never forget it. 

7. Before you hit me, remember that I have teeth that could easily crush the bones in your hand, but 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’ve been out in the sun too long, or my heart may be getting old and weak.

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

10. Go with me on difficult journeys.  Never say, “I can’t bear to watch it” or, “Let it happen in my absence.”  Everything is easier for me if you are there. 

Remember – I love you!!

Author Unknown

TEN COMMANDMENTS FOR A RESPONSIB