A Dog’s Bill of Rights

By Carolyn Krause

I have the right to give and receive unconditional love.
I have the right to a life that is beyond mere survival.
I have the right to be trained, so I do not become a prisoner of my own misbehavior.
I have the right to adequate food and medical care.
I have the right to fresh air and green grass. 
I have the right to socialize with people and dogs outside my family.
I have the right to have my needs and wants respected. 
I have the right to special time with my people.
I have the right to be bred responsibly-if at all. 
I have the right to some time and space all my own.
I have the right to be foolish and silly, and to make my person laugh. 
I have the right to earn my person’s trust and be trusted in return.
I have the right to be forgiven.
I have the right to die with dignity.
I have the right to be remembered well.