over hills and meadows we'd play
we grew up together that way
i remember the time at the old swimmin hole
when i would have drowned beyond doubt
but old shep was right there
he jumped in and helped pull me out
as the years fast did roll
his eyes were fast growing dim
and one day the doctor looked at me and said
i can do no more for him jim
with hands that were trembling
and aimed it at sheps faithful head
i wish they would shoot me instead
and laid his old head on my knee
i had struck the best friend that a man ever had
i cried so i scarcely could see
where the good doggies go
and no more with old shep will i roam
but if dogs have a heaven
old shep has a wonderful home