Here we will celebrate the unique bond that pets have with their families. We will remember the joy they bring upon arrival into our homes, the sorrow they bequeath when they die, and all the superb moments in between!

The Power of the Dog

There is sorrow enough in the natural way
From men and women to fill our day;
And when we are certain of sorrow in store,
Why do we always arrange for more?
Brothers and Sisters, I bid you beware,
Of giving your heart to a dog to tear.

Buy a pup and your money will buy
Love unflinching that cannot lie ...
Perfect passion and worship fed
By a kick in the ribs or a pat on the head.
Nevertheless it is hardly fair,
To risk your heart for a dog to tear.

When the fourteen years which Nature permits
Are closing in asthma, or tumors, and fits;
And the Vet's unspoken prescription runs
To lethal chambers or loaded guns,
Then you will find ... it's your own affair ...
But ... you've given your heart to a dog to tear.

When the body that lived at your single will,
With it's whimper of welcome, is stilled (how still!)
When the spirit that answered your every mood
Is gone ... wherever it goes ... for good,
You will discover how much you care,
And will give your heart to a dog, to tear.

                           - Rudyard Kipling