Just a Dog

Don't ever call him "just a dog"
Who haven't the eyes to see
That I belong to him as much
As he belongs to me
God must have had His reasons
For making the likes of him
And I humbly hope with all my heart
That I was one of them
The years have dulled his russet color
And his vision is getting dim
And he walks with a limp when the days are cold
Cuz the dampness gets to him
He's not as young as he used to be
And his whiskers are frosted white
But he wags his tail as if to say
You see, I'm still alright
I cut his food in bite-sized chunks
And he gives me a toothless grin
Trusting in my love for him
Whatever shape he's in
he has accepted growing old
The way men cannot do
And i'm not ashamed to say
He's taught me more than a thing or two
So don't ever call him "just a dog"
Unless you are prepared
To match his steadfast loyalty
To care the way he's cared
For many the sad offenses
Committed in love's name
And how many times it takes a dog
To put a man to shame