[Stayingstrong]

1) Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.

2) Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.

3)When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

4)When it's in your best interest, practice obedience.

5)Let others know when they've invaded your territory.

6)Take naps and stretch before rising.

7)Run, romp, and play daily.

8)Eat with gusto and enthusiasm.

9)Be loyal.

10)Never pretend to be something you're not.

11)If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

12)When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.

13)Thrive on attention and let people touch you.

14)Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

15)On hot days, drink lots of water and lay under a shady tree.

16)When you're happy, dance around, and wag your entire body.

17)No matter how often you're scolded, don't buy into the guilt thing and pout ... run right back and make friends.

18)Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

A Dog's Prayer
by Beth Norman Harris
Treat me kindly, my beloved master, for no heart in the world is more grateful for kindness than the 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 footstep 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 the bitter elements. And I ask no greater glory than the privelege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth. Though you had 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 worshipper.
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.

[missus]

[mms72]

aaaawwwwwwwwwwwwwww

[Stayingstrong]