FRED SCALZO
About Fred Scalzo
LULLABY FOR MY COWDOG
Written to my Border Collie, Petey
The night before she died
The first day that I saw you, Girl
That first day you showed up
A puff of fluffy fur and ears
A very special little pup
You cocked your little head to listen
Really tried to understand
You learned exactly what to do
No need for reprimand
You worked real hard. You tried to please
You made me look so smart
As though I really had a knack
Of course I played the part
You’d do most anything I asked
I never had to shout
When I had trouble telling you
You’d just figure it all out
That herding instinct way down deep
You knew just how it’s done
You’d head ‘em up and push ‘em in
And pen ‘em just for fun
A cattle dog and real world class
You’d launch yourself in flight
You even knew which way to look
As I shouted “left” or “right”
You never went just half the way
Gave your all and I could tell
You’d go until I stopped you
Or you’d go until you fell
Bring me something from the kitchen
Bring my mail from the street
You’d sit outside the old town store
‘Till my shopping was complete
You’re very smart and bright and more
But Petey in the end
You’re more to me than work and games
You truly are my friend
For sixteen years right by my side
And when I took a seat
No matter where I was, Old Girl
You’d be there at my feet
I know our time is coming, Girl
The time that we can share
When you’re gone I know I’ll reach for you
Then remember you’re not there
You changed my outlook, changed my thoughts
‘Bout critters, not just you
I even see the ugly ones
From a pretty point of view
I see all creatures, big and small
Though none can make your measure
In each I see a touch of you
And now each gives me pleasure
And that’s your legacy, Sweet Girl
That’s what you’ll leave with me
All creatures are reminders
Of how we used to be
We sang our song together, Peach
Your scruffy voice and mine
Some thought we might not sound so good
To us we sounded fine
So now I guess it’s time, Old Friend
To sing that song we do
I’ll sing our lullaby, Sweet Pete
One last time, for you…
© Fred Scalzo
This poem may not be reprinted or reposted without the author's written permission.
About Fred Scalzo:
I was raised in the foothills of Sierra Madre, California near the Hastings Ranch just north east of Lucky Baldwin's Santa Anita Ranch. I ain't no kid but until the last couple of years I helped old Rick "Mule" Barnes at round-up time on the 3 Forks Ranch in Wyoming.
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