My dog

Gentle creature, friend of man,

All my faults your love will span,

All my secrets you will keep,

Every thought, your brown eyes speak.

 

My dearest friend when all desert,

You lick my hand and share my hurt.

Endure my bad moods, bear my nagging,

Still you greet me long tail wagging.

 

Your joy in life I envy much,

To gain such pleasure from my touch,

You sleep so quietly at my feet,

Give me your love, your life complete.

 

You've stayed with me a few short years,

Shared my joys, and all my tears,

I can't express the way I feel,

To walk with you upon my heel.

 

Now, though your muzzle's showing grey

Your puppy traits you still display.

I'll treasure always the memory,

Of happiness you've given me,

 

And now you are no longer here,

I think of you and shed a tear,

It's hard to think you’ve gone for keeps

I miss you and the pain is deep.

 

(Sally Orrin, 1983)