With a watchful eye, there’s a difficult decision to make.
Your legs are unsteady and steps are difficult to take.
There was always a prance and such confidence in your step,
Now your gait waivers, your body not knowing what to expect,
How can this visible decline happen so suddenly?
Now you’re hesitant and unsure of where you should be.
Rhythmatically panting and wondering about aimlessly,
The once bright eyes are now dull, and unable to see.
We call your name, but deaf ears can not hear,
With a re-assuring touch, we let you know we are near.
You were the matriarch that was easy to see
None bold enough to challenge or confront thee.
Now the youngsters romp around you, they know full well,
You will never be a threat again, but they’ll never tell.
A magnificent “show dog”, you would never be,
We tried, but clearly that was something we’d never see.
Your role with us was your plan, as a companion and friend,
You nurtured the young, entertained and protected, right up to the
end.
If it was not your idea, it just wasn’t meant to be,
You were confident, and steadfast your way it would be.
As in many times, sad to say, that same “look” came over you as if
trying to say,
“Please help me now, I don’t want to live this way.”
Struggling with selfish feelings, we know it is best
To honor your wishes, and put you to rest.
Cradled in our arms, just as when you were small
Good-bye loyal friend, the Rainbow Bridge now calls.
~~~Judi Chouinard~~~
