How Could They
Norman’s Story

While still just a pup they caused me such pain
They tattooed my ears, a number, no name
They trained me to chase a lure at the track
Not fast enough, I was left at the back
No money was made, a failure was I
Not good enough, they decided I must die
They muzzled and trussed me then hacked off my ear
I screamed out in pain, I cried out in fear
They held me so tight and did it again
I cried out for mercy, but none did they show
I yelped and I cried and tossed to and fro
When they were finished they threw me aside
Discarded like rubbish, and hoped that I died
A stranger did stop and hold me so tight
From the darkness I saw a bright spark of light
My spirit’s not broken
I’ll not let them win
To give into their cruelty
Would be such a sin
My ears they have healed, my heart’s on the mend
I’ve got a new home and a forever friend
I’m home now contented, stretched out on the floor
No chance of confinement a wide open door
The past is forgotten, the future looks good
A cosy warm bed and plenty of food
Copyright © George Anderson 2013