They left with him many times
Leaving me behind to wait at the door.
But they’ve come home this time without him.
And that’s never happened before.

Today when they came home it was different.
He was not with them and she was dabbing a tear from her eye.
I’ve never seem them both as sad as this.
And into the night I can hear them cry.

The days pass by and it’s been almost a week now.
And my buddy is still not home yet.
Where can he be? At the groomers?
Obedience school? Or maybe even the vet?

His bed beside me lies empty.
And in his bowl next to mine there’s no food.
The house is so dark and dreary.
Just like my dear families’ mood.

I can see his red bandana
Washed and folded neatly in the basket on the floor.
His leash hangs on the very same hook
Where it has been hanging for 12 years or more.

He accepted me into this family
When I was a pup and I came here to stay.
We shared walks and cookies and this family
And a yard full of toys with which we’d play.

I think I know now that he is gone forever.
To a pasture of green I’ve heard them say.
And I will join him there too when it is my time
To leave this sweet family one day.

So my friend, Murphy, rest in peace.
I will try to fill the voided space.
But know that I nor any other dog
Could every take your place!

Written by: Marsha Gaskill