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

  Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I might 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 is 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 pan filled with fresh water, for 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 stay ready,
  willing and able to protect you with my life should your life
  be in danger.

  And my friend, when I am very old, and no longer 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 with the
  last breath I draw that my fate was always safest in your
  hands.