From time to time, people tell me, "lighten up, it's just a
Dog," or, "that's a lot of money for just a dog." They don't understand
The distance traveled, the time spent, or the costs involved for "just a
Dog." Some of my proudest moments have come about with "just a dog."
Many hours have passed and my only company was "just a dog," but I did
Not once feel slighted. Some of my saddest moments have been brought
About by "just a dog," and in those days of darkness, the gentle touch
Of "just a dog" gave me comfort and reason to overcome the day.

If you, too, think it's "just a dog," then you will probably Understand
phases like "just a friend," "just a sunrise," or "just a Promise."
"Just a dog" brings into my life the very essence of Friendship,
trust, and pure unbridled joy. "Just a dog" brings out the Compassion and
patience that make me a better person. Because of "just a
Dog" I will rise early, take long walks and look longingly to the
Future. So for me and folks like me, it's not "just a dog" but an
Embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future, the fond memories
Of the past, and the pure joy of the moment. "Just a dog" brings out
what's good in me and diverts my thoughts away from myself and the
Worries of the day.

I hope that someday they can understand that it's not "just
A dog" but the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being
"just a man." So the next time you hear the phrase "just a dog."
just Smile, because they "just don't understand."
  -Author Unknown

T'was the night before Christmas and all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care
In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.

My dogs were nestled, all snug in "MY" bed,
While visions of chewie toys danced in their heads.
I in my sweat pants and Dad in his sweater,
Had just settled down to read the Great Dog Reporter.

When up on the roof there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from my chair to see what was the matter!
Off to the window I flew in a flash,
Tore open the shutter and threw up the sash.

The moon on the crest of the new fallen snow
Gave the luster of midday to the objects below.
And what to my wondering eyes did appear
But a miniature sleigh and eight tiny reindeer.

With a little old driver so lively and quick
I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.
With a sputter of ashes -- a flurry of soot,
He slid down the chimney with all of his loot.

My dogs stood there so regal and proud,
Guarding their home with barks oh so loud.
St. Nick showed no fear and called them by name,
He knew in his heart they were gentle and tame.

He brought out his list, checking it twice.
"Well, my beauties, all year you've been very nice.
I have in my bag toys and much more,
Just tell me what you pups really long for."

My dogs talked to each other -- much to my surprise
Then turned to Santa with tears in their eyes.

"We have chewies and balls and ropes to be tugged,
We are pampered and coddled and petted and hugged.
But for Christmas dear Santa, we have but one care,
That all dogs be loved as much as we are.

We want no dog beaten, whipped or chained,
No dog abandoned, abused or maimed.
We want all dogs, no matter what size,
To see love reflected in their master's eyes."

St. Nick stopped for a moment to gather his wits,
"I have nothing to stop humans from being such twits.
All dogs are so beautiful and are such a treasure,
Living only to be loved and give humans pleasure.
This lesson I will try to teach,
Then maybe your wish will be within my reach."

St. Nick leaned over and kissed each beautiful head.
"Now you gentle giants, off you go to bed.
Think good thoughts and dream good dreams
Of running and jumping and playing in streams."
St. Nick turned to me, his face wet with tears.
"Be proud of your babies, they are such dears."

In an instant St. Nick disappeared in a poof,
And I heard him chuckle as he ran on the roof.
He jumped in his sleigh and to his team gave a whistle,
And off he flew like the down on a thistle.

And I heard him exclaim as he drove out of sight,

"Merry Christmas to All and To All Dogs a Good Life!"