7 COMMANDMENTS FOR PET PARENTS
My life is likely to last 10 to 15 years. 
I am counting on you to care for me until I die.
Be patient with me.
Give me time to understand what you want.
Don't be angry with me for long,
and don't lock me up as punishment.
You have your work,
your entertainment and your friends.
 I only have YOU.
Talk to me --
even if you think
I don't understand your words,
 I understand your voice
when it's speaking to me.
Before you scold me for being uncooperative, obstinate or lazy, ask yourself if something might be bothering me.
Perhaps I'm not getting the right food,
or I don't feel well,
or I'm getting old and weak.
Hitting me as punishment
WON'T teach me to be obedient.
It WILL teach me to not trust you.
And PLEASE go with me on that last difficult journey.
Please don't say, "I can't bear to watch it"
or Let it happen in my absence."
Everything is easier for me if you are there.