Old dog.
Why do you stay so near?
Go lie in the sun and drowse.
You needn't follow my every step,
And jump up when I appear.
Your joints are stiff;
You've earned a rest;
Lived your life well;
Passed every test.
And now you're very dear.

Old dog.
Why do you stay so near?
You lie close to my side
Each time I pause,
Head in my lap, alert to hear
Every nuance of my voice. You long ago made your choice
And never once looked to the rear.

Old dog.
Why do you stay so near?
What is it that you hear?
A far-off call, coming closer,
That I, too, know is there?
With each day our time together
Draws nearer to its end.
Please stay a while, old friend!