A Poem for National Dog Day

In the dog days of August

Seems not enough to celebrate

So much.

Smaller than the Halloween pumpkin last year,

Now almost too big for me to carry;

You frolicked in the snow packed to your chest,

As I laughed to the point of exhaustion;

Protected me from squirrels and rabbits,

And that pillow under my head;

Stole more snacks than I can say,

And begged for treats with that sweet tilted head.

Nearly a year you've been with me,

A year of broken leashes and chases,

Wrestling and obedience,

Cold noses at 6 AM,

Always filled with the bliss of just being.

And so this National Dog Day,

Your day,

I thank you for your companionship,

Your joy,

And your love.