You couldn't help but love him -
A mutt, in the true sense.
Shaggy, short, and snappy,
With Bogie-- no pretense.

Indoors - outdoors, all around,
Bogie always seemed at home.
Inside the house - inside a fence,
He stepped lively as he roamed.

He was a wonderful companion,
At your feet or in your lap.
He was always there beside you
As you worked or as you napped.

In the last years, he had suffered:
Cancer - twice, in other ways -
Infections, amputation,
Each, in turn, reduced his days.

Like a baby, he was pampered -
Love returned for what he'd given.
Our hearts were broken when he left us;
Now he roams in "doggie heaven".

More than a friend; a true companion,
Bogie knew our every mood.
He gave us love despite our failures.
Without him, we're unglued.
J. Niki
13 May 2010