POEMS

Then will you do what must be done, for this -- the last battle -- can't be won. You will be sad I understand, but don't let grief then stay your hand, For on this day, more than the rest, your love and friendship must stand the test. We have had so many happy years, you wouldn't want me to suffer so. When the time comes, please, let me go.
Take me to where to my needs they'll tend, only, stay with me till the end And hold me firm and speak to me, until my eyes no longer see. I know in time you will agree, it is a kindness you do to me. Although my tail its last has waved, from pain and suffering I have been saved. Don't grieve that it must be you, who has to decide this thing to do We've been so close -- we two -- these years, don't let your heart hold any tears. -- Unknown​ s.

When God had made the Earth and sky, The flowers and the trees, He then made all the animals And all the birds and bees. And when his work was finished, Not one was quite the same. He said, 'I'll walk this earth of mine, And give each one a name, And so he travelled land and sea, And everywhere he went, A little creature followed Him Until his strength was spent. And when all were named upon the Earth, And in the sky and sea, The little creature said  "'Dear Lord, There's not one left for me!' The Father smiled and softly said: 'I've left you till the end. I've turned my own name back to front, And called you DOG, my friend. ​

 They will not go quietly, the dogs who have shared our lives.

In subtle ways they let us know their spirit still survives.

Old habits still make us think we hear them at the door.

Or step back when we drop a tasty morsel on the floor.

Our feet still go around the place the food dish used to be,

And sometimes, coming home at night we miss them terribly.

And although time may bring new friends and a new food dish to fill,

That one place in our hearts belongs to them...and always will..

When my family first bought me to live within their home. They cuddled and they pampered me and groomed with brush and comb. They played with me and laughed with me and showered me with toys. I sure do love my family, and all the tiny girls and boys. The children loved to feed me and give me special treats. They even let me sleep with them - all cosy in their sheets I used to go for lovely walks, often several times a day. They even fought to hold my lead, I'm so very proud to say! These are the things I'll not forget - a cherished memory. for now I'm in a shelter, bereft of family. They used to laugh and praise me when I played with that old shoe. But I didn't know the difference between the old one and the new The kids and I would grab a rag, and for hours we played tug. So I thought I did the right thing when I chewed that bedroom rug. They said that I had lost control and would have to live outside. I didn't really understand this, though I really really tried! The walks they stopped one by one they said they had no time. I wish that I could change things I wish I knew my crime. My life became so lonely shackled to a metal chain. I barked and barked continually I thought I'd go insane. So they took me to the shelter but were embarrassed to say why. So they said I'd caused an allergy, then said their last goodbye. If only I'd had training, as a tiny little pup. I wouldn't have been so hard to live with, when I was all grown up. You only have one day left", I heard the kennel man say. Does that mean I have a second chance? "Do I go back home today"? ​  

I stood by your bed last night, I came to have a peep. I could see that you were crying, You found it hard to sleep

I whined to you softly As you brushed away a tear, "It's me, I haven't left you, I'm well, I'm fine, I'm here."

I was close to you at breakfast, I watched you pour the tea, You were thinking of the many times,

Your hands reached down to me. I was with you at the shops today, Your arms were getting sore. I longed to take your parcels, I wish I could do more.

I was with you at my grave today, You tend it with such care. I want to re- assure you, That I'm not lying there.

I walked with you towards the house, As you fumbled for your key. I gently put my paw on you, I smiled and said "It's me"

You looked so very tired, And sank into a chair, I tried so hard to let you know, That I was standing there.

It's possible for me, To be so near you every day. To say to you with certainty, "I never went away."

You sat there very quietly, Then smiled, I think you knew… In the stillness of that evening, I was very close to you.

An when the time is right for you, To cross the brief divide, I'll rush across to greet you, And we'll stand, side by side.

I have so many things to show you, There is so much for you to see.

Be patient, live your journey out… Then come home to be with me. ​

The dogs all had a party They came from near and far. Some dogs came by taxi And others came by car.

Each dog signed his name upon a special book And each dog hung his backside upon a special hook.

One dog was not invited, And this aroused his ire. He stormed into the party And loudly shouted "FIRE!" And in the chaos that followed,

The dogs forgot to look And grabbed just any backside From off of any hook. So that is the real reason. whenever they meet or roam,

They sniff each others' backside, To try and find their own! .

This article was written by ©Stan Rawlinson (The Original Doglistener). A professional full time Dog Behaviourist and Obedience Trainer.. ​