I have one dog upon my lap
another standing up on my knee
looking at me with big brown eyes
as if to say why him and not me
the same is true when I make a fuss
of anyone of the four dogs
the others are there as if by rote
climbing and jumping trying to be boss
I pat them all upon the head
taking in turns so as not to miss one
as they push and shove each other away
cold noses exploring to add to the fun
Ginnie is my oldest girl
a special place in my heart for twelve short years
she is a part of the original pack
the rest all gone to other frontiers
then comes Buddy a funny little guy
as old as Ginnie but lacking some sense
as deaf as a post and with failing sight
he does his best to recompense
Mikey is but a young pup
at two years old and full of life
demanding attention at every turn
not caring if he cause a strife
Sandy is the latest guest
she too is only two years old
but full of love and energy
as her life with us does unfold
I love my dogs and I know they love me
as between them all I share my heart
something that the whole world knows
the love of a dog and troubles depart
if there’s anything bad about a dog
it’s that their life so short can be
and for all of the pleasure they provide
there is that moment of misery
but in the time they are alive
they know no bounds in the love they give
sharing their life with their human friends
helping each of us to live.

Written 7/17/2019