One dog has a "family" who understands her needs, a warm bed, fresh water, a vet if she bleeds.

The other has an "owner" who isn't unkind, but isn't it so true, that love can be blind?

One dog sleeps inside the home, next to the children's bed. The other sleeps outside, again, no soft place to lay her head.

One dog has a water bowl, fresh water seldom wasted, The others bowl is dry...again; forgotten in the haste.

One dog has a box of toys, always eager to play fetch. The other doesn't know the game- just watches from the fence.

When looking into your dogs eyes, what do YOUR eyes see? A dog who has an "owner" or one with a "family"?

© 1997 W. Croson.
Wendy is an animal warden. Thanks Wendy for letting me use your poem on our site.