"The New Puppy Promise" poem

Rosie

Hello and Happy Poetry Friday! Be sure to visit Laura at Writing the World for Kids for Roundup! The big news around here is that we got a new puppy! Her name is Rosie. She's the second Aussie we've owned, and she is such a sweetheart. Among all the usual things, we've successfully introduced her to our daily walk (she went the entire way without a problem!); the stairs down to the dock (she was a little scared at first, but as soon as we put her little feet on the first stair, she was good to go); the lake (she put her paws in and got a drink; a boat ride (she let the wind ruffle her fur then curled up next to my feet for the rest of the ride). She's just an easy-going, friendly, doll of a puppy. I'm in love with her! And I want to do the best I can for her. And so, I give you "The New Puppy Promise."

The New Puppy Promise

Puppy, I promise to make a home for you

where you will always be safe.

I will be patient with you as you learn

where to do your business

and what not to chew.

I will play with you every day

and take you on grand adventures,

so you, too, can see the world.

I will listen to what your ears and tail

and eyes are telling me.

I will help you find your favorite spot

to be scratched.

I will let you be a dog who barks and romps,

but I will also take the time to show you

how to be courteous to me and to others.

Sometimes we may disagree.

Sometimes we may get mad

and hurt each other's feelings.

But Puppy, I promise to never give up on you.

Please don't give up on me!

I may be slow sometimes, but I will learn.

I will do what it takes to keep you healthy.

I will be generous with walks and hugs and treats.

Each day we'll discover new things together.

You will be mine, and I will be yours – forever.

- Irene Latham