I would have died that day if not for you. I would have given up on life if not for your kind eyes. I would have used my teeth in fear if not for your gentle hands. I would have left this life believing that all humans don’t care Believing there is no such thing as fur that isn’t matted skin that isn’t flea bitten good food and enough of it beds to sleep on someone to love me to show me I deserve love just because I exist. Your kind eyes, your loving smile, and your gentle hands, your big heart saved me… You saved me from the terror of the pound, soothing away the memories of my old life. You have taught me what it means to be loved. I have seen you do the same for other dogs like me. I have heard you ask yourself in times of despair Why you do it, When there is no more money, no more room, no more homes. You open your heart a little bigger, stretch the money a little tighter. Make just a little more room…to save one more like me. I tell you with the gratitude and love that shines in my eyes In the best way I know how Reminding you why you go on trying. I am the reason. The dogs before me are the reason as are the ones who come after. Our lives would’ve been wasted, our love never given, we would die if not for you.

Hear our humble prayer, O God,
for our friends, the animals,
especially for those who are suffering:
for any that are lost or deserted
or frightened or hungry.
We entreat for them all
Thy mercy and pity,
and for those who deal with them,
we ask a heart of compassion
and gentle hands and kindly words.
Make us, ourselves,
to be true friends to the animals
and so to share
the blessings.