The Hand

The hand that holds the leash must be firm yet kind

If the one who is leashed will learn to pay mind

For a beast is still a beast who must do as master says

Happier in life when the pretty fur beast obeys

If only it were that simple for two beings so unalike

Spending endless days in fetch or going on a hike

Our fur babies are at the mercy of some who can be mean

Who at times abuse where they cannot be seen

They cannot talk to say if they are suffering or well

Oh if only they spoke as humans with the tales to tell

All that can be done is for each of us to be

The sort of person in private like the public one they see

Pain inflicted on babies who walk on all fours

Hurts them more as their lives are shorter than ours

Many would forfeit their lives protecting another being

From dangers that a person might not even be seeing

Scratching their backs or their bellies if you must

If you are lucky enough to have gained a fur baby's trust

A bit of chicken in their twice per day kibble

Giving them a treat of some cheese just a nibble

That is all it takes to make these lovely little ones happy

A paw at your thigh or a joyful nosing in your lappy

His life will be shorter than mine, my PJ, well I know

So, I cherish him always just enjoying watching him grow