Dog Ten Commandments:
1) My life is likely to last 10 to 15 years. Any separation from you will be painful. Remember that before you get me.
2) Give me time to understand what you want of me.
3) Place your trust in me. It is crucial to my well-being.
4) Do not be angry with me for long. Do not lock me up as punishment.
5) You have your work, your entertainment and your friends. I only have you.
6) Talk to me sometimes. Even if I don’t understand your words, I do understand your voice when it is speaking to me.
7) Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget.
8) Remember before you hit me that I have teeth that could easily hurt you but I choose not to bite you because I love you.
9) Before you scold me for being uncooperative, obstinate or lazy, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I might not be getting the right food or I have been outside too long or my heart is getting too old and weak.
10) Take care of me when I get old. You, too, will grow old. Go with me on difficult journeys. Never say, “I cannot bear to watch” or “Let it happen in my absence.” Everything is easier for me if you are there, even my death. Remember that I love you.
By: Stan Rawlinson
- “If we pay attention to what really happens in the context of a relationship with a dog, we’ll discover something new, both about ourselves and life. Such a discovery can only prove to be enriching.”
- “We are to listen to a dog until we discover what is needed instead of imposing ourselves in the name of training.”
By: Monks of New Skete
Never pass up an opportunity to go for a joyride.
Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.
When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
When it’s in your best interest, practice obedience.
Let others know when they've invaded your territory.
Take naps and stretch before rising.
Run, romp and play daily.
Eat with gusto and enthusiasm.
Be loyal.
Never pretend to be something you're not.
If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close, & nuzzle them gently.
Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
On hot days, drink lots of water and lay under a shady tree.
When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
No matter how often you're scolded, don't buy into the guilt thing and pout. Instead, run back and make friends.
Bond with your pack.
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
List compiled by Ruth Carter
- "Not to hurt our humble brethren (the animals) is our first duty to them, but to stop there is not enough. We have a higher mission - to be of service to them whenever they require it. If you have men who will exclude any of God's creatures from the shelter of compassion and pity, you will have men who will deal likewise with their fellow men."
Saint Francis of Assisi
Wolf Credo – “A Way of Life”:
RESPECT the elders.
TEACH the young.
COOPERATE with the pack.
PLAY when you can.
HUNT when you must.
REST in between.
SHARE your affections.
VOICE your feelings.
LEAVE your mark.
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