Eleven Commandments for Your Puppy

PUPPY LOVE WITH KATE WHITNEY

 

By: Kate Whitney – September, 2010

Happy fall!

PuppyWhere did the summer go? I don’t know about you, but I am really sad that summer is almost over; I’m not ready for cold weather just yet! I am, however, ready for the Patriots to get going and kick some butt! Fall is a great time of year, and with the changing of the seasons it’s a good idea to check your pet’s records and make sure they are up to date on all vaccines, heartworm pills, and flea/tick preventative.

For this month’s column, I’m changing it up a little bit. What I have decided to share with you isn’t a “column” at all; it’s a pet’s eleven commandments. The animal control officer for Ipswich, Matthew Antczak, shared this with me and I wanted to share it with all of you. He wasn’t sure who the author for numbers 1-10 is, but the purpose of it being sent to him was to keep it circulating. If anyone knows who wrote it don’t hesitate to email me so I can give credit to the author. Matthew added number 11 to the list. These are just so good I wanted to share them with you all.

A Pet’s 11 Commandments:

 

1.) My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

 

2.) Give me time to understand what you want of me.

 

3.) Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well being.

 

4.) Don’t be angry with me for long and don’t lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I have only you.

 

5.) Talk to me. Even though I may not understand your words, I understand your voice.

 

6.) Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

 

7.) Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, yet I choose not to scratch or bite you.

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, or I’ve been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.

 

9.) Please take care of me when I grow old. You too will grow old.

 

10.) On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can’t bear to watch. Don’t make me face this alone. Every thing is easier with you there, because I love you so.

 

11.) Please don’t take me shopping with you, especially on those hot days, and leave me in the car for a “MINUTE” while you run in. It gets very hot and uncomfortable. I’d rather be left at home and come running to greet you at the door when you return.

Take a moment to let those thoughts sink in. They are all very important, don’t ever forget them. Print them out and hang them on your refrigerator or someplace where you can see them every day, so you can be reminded of how your pet wants to be treated. A pet is a special thing and should never be thought of as “just an animal.” Responsible pet ownership is something you should take very seriously.

On another note…I want to tell you about a really exciting opportunity that was presented to me. A good friend of mine, who also happens to own the restaurant in Andover called “Glory” emailed me to let me know about a really great thing she is doing. She is having currently “celebrity bartending” every Tuesday and Thursday through November. From 6-8pm at the bar, 10% of sales and a percentage of tips will go towards the “celebrity’s” charity of choice. So hang on to your hats…I, along with my best friend, Dana, will be bartending at Glory on Thursday October 7th from 6-8pm and donating the money to One Tail at a Time Rescue (obviously). There will be a fashion show put on by Intermix immediately following our “debut” as bartenders. So please come out, enjoy some great food and company, and help out a really great cause!

Let’s save some dogs!!!

 

Kate Whitney is a Boxford resident and owner of the Swingrite Corporation. If you are interested in adopting a puppy or becoming a foster parent to a puppy waiting for a home you can email Kate at Kwswingrite@aol.com