When I was a lad
And Old Shep was a pup ...
Over hills and meadows we'd stray.
Just a boy and his dog,
We were both full of fun.
We grew up together that way.
I remember the time at the old swimmin' hole,
When I would have drowned beyond doubt.
Shep was right there
To the rescue he came
He jumped in and then pulled me out.
As the years fast did roll,
Old Shep he grew old.
His eyes were fast growing dim.
And one day the doctor looked at me and said,
"I can do no more for him, Jim."
With hands that were trembling,
I picked up my gun
And aimed it at Shep's faithful head.
I just couldn't do it,
I wanted to run.
I wish they would shoot me instead.
He came to my side,
And looked up at me.
And laid his old head on my knee
I stroked the best friend
That a man ever had,
I cried so I scarcely could see.
Old Shep he knew he was going to go,
For he reached out and licked at my hand.
He looked up at me just as much as to say,
We're parting, but you understand.
Old Shep he has gone
Where the good doggies go,
And no more with Old Shep will I roam.
But if dogs have a heaven,
There's one thing I know ...
Old Shep has a wonderful home.
The words "MASTER AND DOG" were purposely left out of the song in order to honor the sanctity of the special bond between "Old Shep" and his partner.
