Stan Rawlinson Author of The 10 Commandments For Dogs

My life is likely to last 10-15 years, any separation from you will be painful for me. Remember that before you buy me.
Give me time to understand what you want from me, don't be impatient, short-tempered, or irritable.
Place your trust in me and I will always trust you back. Respect is earned not given as an inalienable right.
Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment, I am not capable of understanding why? I only know I have been rejected, you have your work entertainment and friends I only have you.
Talk to me sometimes, even if I don't understand your words I understand your voice and your tone, "you only have to look at my tail".
Be aware that however you treat me I'll never forget it, and if it's cruel it may affect me forever.
Please don't hit me I can't hit back, but I can bite and scratch and I really don't ever want to do that.
Before you scold me for being uncooperative, obstinate, or lazy, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right foods or I've been out in the sun too long, or my heart is getting old and weak, I may be just dog tired.
Take care of me when I get old. You too will grow old and may also need love, care, comfort, and attention.
Go with me on difficult journeys, never say, "I can't bear to watch" or "Let it happen in my absence". Everything is easier for me if you are there. Remember, irrespective of what you do I will always love you.

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© Stan Rawlinson 1993

This article was written by ©Stan (The Original Doglistener). A professional full time Dog Behaviourist and Obedience Trainer. You can visit his website at www.doglistener.co.uk for more articles and training information. You may freely distribute this article and any photographs or save to any electronic media as long as they are only used within the article and it is left intact. It must include the copyright box above. Please let me know out of courtesy where and when you publish. E.mail will suffice. including the link back to your site. If you wish to publish in a magazine or book any of my photographs or articles then you must contact me for copyright permission first. I can supply the full resolution photo's that are very high resolution images. ©Stan (Doglistener) Telephone: 0208 979 2019 Mobile Number: 07976 153161 E-mail:enquiries@doglistener.co.uk Stan also covers London Surrey Middlesex Berkshire Kent Sussex Hampshire, UK. But is prepared to travel further if required