Ten Commandments for Pet Owners

I came across this "10 Commandments" at the vet's office last night at the vet and it moved me to tears cos I thought of our late best friend Zoe whom was with us for thirteen long years before she passed on peacefully at a ripe old age. And we're thankful and glad we have never ever ill-treated Zoe, well, we probably spoilt her with too much rubbish food and did not take her for as many walks as she deserves, but she slept in our beds, rested in our arms and had a great life overall.

I Googled a few similar versions, then merged some to resemble the one we read last night as close as possible. The below is really really true and poignant and sad in a way, but a reality all must face before they make a decision to adopt a furry family friend.

Ten Commandments for Pet Owners

1. My life is likely to last 10 to 15 years or more. Any separation from you will be painful.
2. Give me time to understand what you want from me. Do not break my spirit with your temper, though I will always forgive you. Your patience will teach me more effectively.
3. Please have me spayed or neutered.
4. Treat me kindly, my beloved friend, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for your kindness than mine. Don't be angry with me for long, and don't lock me up as punishment. After all, you have your job, your friends, your entertainment, I only have you.
5. Speak to me often. Even if I don't understand your words, I understand your voice when it's speaking to me. Your voice is the sweetest sound I ever hear, as you must know by my enthusiasm whenever I hear your footsteps.
6. Take me in when it's cold and wet. I'm a domestic animal and am no longer accustomed to the bitter elements. I ask for little more than your gentle hands petting me. Keep my bowl filled with water. Feed me good food so that I may stay well to romp and play. By your side, I stand ready, willing and able to share my life with you, for that is what I live for. I'll never forget how well you've treated me.
7. Please do not hit me. I cannot hit back, but I can bite and scratch and I don't ever want to feel the need to do that.
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, my ear may hurt, or my heart may be getting weak, or maybe I'm just dog-tired.
9. Take care of me when I get old. For you will grow old, too.
10. When I am old, or when I no longer enjoy good health, please do not make heroic efforts to keep me going. I am not having fun. Just see to it that my trusting life is taken gently. And be with me on that difficult journey when it's time to say goodbye. Never say, "I just can't bear to watch it."Everything is easier for me when you are there. I will leave this earth knowing with my last breath that my fate was always safest in your hands. I love you.

I'd like to think if any of our furry friends can talk back, they would say the above to us *sniff*

Zoe; better days.

Zoe; sick and frail at the vet, nearer to her last precious days.