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Owning a pet requires a lifetime commitment; a commitment to provide its basic needs; a commitment to *always* provide a home for it; a commitment to return the unconditional love you will receive. We all know that you will never own a pet, but you do own the Responsibilty for it.

Anyone can have a pet but not all can hear and understand the voice in them. If only you can hear them; these will be their words:


1. My life is likely to last 10 to 15 yrs. I reply on you for my needs, and are dependent on you for your protection and well-being. Any separation from you will be painful for me. Remember that before you buy me.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me. Understand my needs, treat me with dignity and have compassion for me when I am unable to defend myself.

3. Place your trust in me---it's crucial for my well being. Respect and love me as individuals. I will love you unconditionally with all my heart and soul, enrich your life beyond your wildest expectation.

4. Don't be angry at me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your entertainment and friends. I only have you!!

5. Talk to me sometimes. Even though I don't understand your words, I understand your voice when it's speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will not forget. I am not playthings to be altered to suit the convenience and lifestyle of you whom we share our lives. Whatever alteration you make to my body should never be solely for personal vanity or convenience.

7. Remember before you hit me that I have teeth that could easily crush the bones of your hand, but that I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being "uncooperative" or "obstinate" or "lazy," ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I am not getting the right food, or I've been out in the sun too long, or my heart is getting old and weak.

9. Take care of me when I get old; you too, will grow old.

10. 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.

If you cannot make that lifetime commitment, you should settle for stuffed animals as companions. Consider this: would you consider giving birth to a baby with the thought "if it doesn't work out, we can give it away?"