Old Shep (Red Foley)

When I was a lad and Old Shep was a pup O'er hills and meadows we'd stray Just a boy and his dog, we both full of fun We grew up together that way I remember the time at the old swimmin' hole When I would have drowned beyond doubt Shep was right there, to the rescue he came He jumped in and helped pull me out So the years sped along and at last he grew old His eyesight was fast growin' dim Then one day, the doctor looked at me and said "I can't do no more for him, Jim" With a hand that was tremblin', I picked up my gun I aimed it at Shep's faithful head I just couldn't do it, I wanted to run And I wished they'd shoot me instead I went to his side and I sat on the ground He laid his head on my knee I stroked the best pal that a man ever found I cried, so I scarcely could see Old Sheppie, he knew he was goin' to go For he reached out and licked at my hand He looked up at me, just as much as to say “We're partin' but you understand” Now Old Shep is gone where the good doggies go And no more with Old Shep will I roam But if dogs have a Heaven, there's one thing I know Old Shep has a wonderful home