Give me cool, clean water often. I cannot tell you in words when I am sick, so watch me. By my signs you will know my condition. Keep me well shod and examine my teeth when I do not eat. Give me all the possible shelter from the hot sun and blanket me, not when I am working, but when I am standing in the cold. never put a frosty bit in my mouth. First warm it a moment in your hands.

I pull you and your wagon without a murmur and wait patiently for you long hours of the day and night. Please do not overload me or tie me with my head in an unnatural position. When I am harnessed, check me so I have free use of my head. I pray you be careful my blinders stand well out of my eyes, as with them I am unable to see behind me. Remember, I am ready at your bidding to give my heart to you.

And finally, Oh Master, when my youthful strength is gone, do not turn me out or sell me to some cruel owner, to be slowly tortured and starved to death. But do thou, my Master, take my life in the kindest way and your God will reward you now and in the Hereafter. This I ask in the name of Jesus, who Himself was born in a stable.

Amen.

Thanks to the PetsMart Percheron Hitch web site at www.equizotic.com.

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