Even though my body is gone,
Please know I'm always near,
When you call the other dogs,
I'll be the first to hear.
I'll be the first to reach you then,
I'll be the first to heel,
Of the wet noses on your cheek,
Mine will be the first you feel.
I'm always first inside at night,
I'm curled up on your bed,
Ad when you go to sleep and dream,
I'll be right there in your head.
You might not see me running by,
You might not feel my kiss,
But when the pack comes all inside,
I'll be the first you miss.
I was the first to leave your side,
I was the first you lost,
But look outside on a winter morn,
They're my pawprints in the frost.
I'll never leave, I'll be right here,
Each and every single day,
And though you might not see me,
Your guardian dog I will stay.
by ELISE THOMAS.
