He was there the day that we married..glad to be there enjoying the fuss He was there the night Matt's father died and consoled us in the hush He never imposed himself on others.. he knew who would and who would not like a hug If he sensed you were busy, or distracted.. and would just lie down on the rug He never made demands or objections Humility and ease was his way He didn't even tug on the leash When the vet's helper took him away We didn't know that was the last time we'd see him the last look back at the masters he trusted When we saw him again he was gasping They said that something inside him had ruptured We asked that they help him to heaven And we've mourned him each moment since then Our house, once a home now sits silent We have nothing but memories of him.. We love you Otis.. We hope you're reunited with old friends, surrounded by children to kiss, and sticks to chew, and we hope you know we will be looking for you when we leave this place. Please be there to greet us boy.