In the barnyard you were born
Muddy as the livestock pond
Bathed you and loved you, yes we did
And Memorial weekend brought you home

The Golden Boy, at first unsure
Of this mocha puffball intrusion
Soon your chin turtled gently 'cross his back
Your love for each other endured

Lanky legs and Velvet ears
We marveled at your growth
Quirky ways and boisterous bark
Your good intentions were sincere

Over the years, the babies came
You loved them instantly
Eager to please and eager to play
In all their Girlie games

Frosted chin, powdered-sugar chest
The years were catching up
Loyal companion to the end
Your Love would never rest

Quiet house, greeting missed
Foreboding of Sad news
Painful movements, labored breath
How quickly it came to this

Unprepared to say Good-bye
We loved you enough to know
The sorrow of your passing, a fraction of the Joy
You'd brought into our lives

Loyal to the end, you wagged
As we held you lovingly
Whispered last words, peaceful rest
To Heaven, our boy
Swiftly and gently go
To Heaven