Dear Maya the Dog,

You are with us now. We will take care of everything. There is no need to put your hackles up when people are walking down the opposite side of the street. There is no need to bark and charge the door like a wolverine when people come a-visiting. There is no need to startle and whip your head around at the smallest sounds. We know you more practice, but in the meantime, feel free to open your mouth every once in awhile. You can do the doggie smile. You can relax. We promise we won't let anything bad happen to you or to us.

Love,
Mom and Dad