by Mare Costigan
He lived at the shelter patient and cute
eating and sleeping, his voice mostly mute
from Puerto Rico he traveled; scared and unsure
a rescue success now adoption his cure
A sad day in April with kidneys that failed
our 14 year old beagle's life suddenly paled
time to let go of our sweet velcro baby
Barney we'll see you in heaven-someday
Knowing our hearts would be empty and sad
off to the shelter; a new furry friend to be had
so many choices which dog will it be?
wanting them all, sheppards and collies
Still undecided we had wandered outside
more dogs to look at; standing with pride
anxiously barking, he ran side to side
"please take me home" was the look in his eyes
How could we possibly leave him behind?
a handsome red spaniel soon became mine
attached to my heart, my body, my soul
sweet proud Bubba had found his new home
Our perfect companion Bubba would be
no barking, no growling, just love totally
three years too soon, the cancer appeared
surgery and medicine for our little dear
The prognosis was poor in medical theory
our love and caretaking; always cheery
Bubba taught us a lesson in courage
to know him and love him was our privilege
The night before Bubba crossed over the rainbow
I knew he was hurting and we had to let go
I whispered gently; "it's o.k. you know"
"Bubba, sweet Bubba, we love you so"
I know that he heard me and understood
a trip to our vet, the news wasn't good
putting aside all my feelings and fears
we said our goodbyes through love and tears
Bubba I thank you for blessing my life
your love always present in good times and strife
I smile when I think of you playing in Heaven
You live in my heart; you were one in a million