Just because dogs don't read doesn't mean that I don't have my favorites. Here are a few of them, guaranteed to bring a tear to any dog lover's eye.

DO I GO HOME TODAY?
Author Unknown

My family brought me home, cradled in their arms,
They cuddled me and smiled at me, said I was full of charm.

They played with me and laughed with me, they showered me with toys,
I sure do love my family, especially the girls and boys.

The children loved to feed me, they gave me special treats,
They even let me sleep with them, all snuggled in their sheets.

I used to go for many walks, often several times a day,
They even fought to hold the leash, I'm very proud to say.

They used to laugh and praise me when I played with that old shoe.
But I didn't know the difference between the old ones and the new.

The kids and I would grab a rag, and for hours we would tug.
So I thought I did the right thing when I chewed the bedroom rug.

They said I was out of control and would have to live outside.
This I did not understand, although I tried and tried.

The walks stopped, one by one; they said they hadn't time.
I wish that I could change things, I wish I knew my crime.

My life became so lonely in the backyard on a chain.
I barked and barked all day long to keep from going insane.

So they brought me to a shelter, but were embarrassed to say why.
They said I caused an allergy, and then kissed me goodbye.

If I'd only had some classes when I was just a pup,
I wouldn't have been so hard to handle when I was all grown up.

"You only have one day left," I heard a worker say.
Does this mean a second chance? Do I go home today?

A Dog's Prayer
by Beth Norman Harris

Treat me kindly, my beloved master, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for kindness than the loving heart of me.

Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick your hand between the blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would have me do.

Speak to me often, for your voice is the world's sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footstep falls upon my waiting ear.

When it is cold and wet, please take me inside, for I am now a domesticated animal, no longer used to bitter elements. And I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth. Though had you no home, I would rather follow you through ice and snow than rest upon the softest pillow in the warmest home in all the land, for you are my god and I am your devoted worshiper.

Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for although I should not reproach you were it dry, I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst. Feed me clean food, that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding, to walk by your side, and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my life should your life be in danger.

And, beloved master, should the great Master see fit to deprive me of my health or sight, do not turn me away from you. Rather hold me gently in your arms as skilled hands grant me the merciful boon of eternal rest -- and I will leave you knowing with the last breath that I drew, my fate was ever safest in your hands.

Rainbow Bridge
Author Unknown

Just this side of Heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing: they each miss someone very special, someone who was left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; his eager body begins to quiver. Suddenly, he breaks from the group, flying over the green grass, faster and faster. You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into those trusting eyes, so long gone from your life, but never absent from your heart. Then you cross the Rainbow Bridge together.