Pet Ode Revisited

Famous dogs have been dying of late. First Oprah's, now Martha's. No mocking here (I'll leave that to others). Commiseration is my only response. But, it did make me think of the poem my Mom gave me many years ago. Well before Cubby died. It was an ode to a dying dog. I always had trouble reading it without tearing up. [Yeah, I'm a sensitive guy. But most of you know this. Deal with it.]

Anyway, Mom gave me a clipping of the poem which didn't have the author. Posted it on my personal website with "Unknown" in place of the author's name. I've passed along that poem several times. But, I never investigated further. Until Martha's dog died.

It's amazing what can be found on Google. I typed in the first line of the poem. And, poof! There it was. Author's name and all. Beth Norman Harris. The poem is quoted with several titles and there are several variations in the concluding verses. The one I originally received is the version I like best. With my bastardized title. Thanks Beth. And you too, Martha. This is as close to closure as I'm going to get.

A Dog's Plea (An Ode to Faithful Companions)
by Beth Norman Harris

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 although I should lick your hand between blows, your patience and understanding will 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 footsteps 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 stand 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 I no longer enjoy good health, hearing and sight, do not make heroic efforts to keep me going. I am not having any 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.