As far back as the Bible we find several laws which teach the importance of compassion for animals. The religious obligation of observing Sabbath rest in the Ten Commandments is extended to animals as well: ox, donkey, and cattle. Wherever we turn, we see that Jewish tradition regards the life of all of God's creatures-animals included-as sacred. One of the most insightful instructions in the Talmud concerning the treatment of animals is found in this profoundly simple statement: "You must not eat your own meal until you have seen to it that all your animals have been fed. In our story Rabbi Gold helps a little puppy to fall asleep.