ODE TO A LABRADOR
We all adore a Labrador, a friend to everyone,
With smiling face and wagging tail, they’re always up for fun!
They do possess a zest for life and love to run and play.
They plunge in streams , they roll in mud for hours and hours a day!
Once clean and dry they’ll then chill out on couch or bed or floor
And snooze until the smell of food comes through that kitchen door !
Their appetite is legendary, there’s NOTHING they won’t eat.
Those soulful eyes will plead with you, “Oh PLEASE give me a treat!”
But then there is a deal to strike, and Labs are quick to learn
That if they do a trick or two that food is theirs to earn!
They want to please and though for snacks there’s not much they won’t do
The best reward they’ll ever have is praise and love from YOU!
The gentle Lab is there to help, intelligent and kind.
Assistance dog or hearing dog or guide dog for the blind.
The Labrador is trusted the world over for such tasks
But all they want from us is love and that’s not much to ask!
They’ll keep your children smiling and join in all their games
But sit with old folk patiently and love them all the same.
They’ll be a sporting partner, agile, fast and smart,
The Labrador is versatile, brave and full of heart.
Those velvet ears are swift to rise each time they hear your voice
As your devoted confidante, you’ll have no better choice.
Companion. helper, guardian, devoted to the end,
We all adore a Labrador, forever our best friend.
(c) Catherine Hamilton 2022
ODE TO A BORDER COLLIE
For Kaielee, Bryn and Blayze
The Border Collie loves to play, they never quite grow up
And even if YOU think they have, THEY think they’re still a pup!
Their active brains just love to learn, and you will need to find
A good variety of tasks to occupy their mind.
Avoiding words is commonplace. You’ll spell them out…. but know
They’ll learn to spell the likes of “ F – O – O – D” and “G – O” !
They recognise your walking shoes, their toys you always take,
Each little clue is never missed. They’re watching – no mistake!
Collies seems to read your mind. That 6th sense never fails.
One thought of “walk” before it’s said means madly waving tails!
When it comes to exercise this ultimate athlete
With drive and boundless energy will run you off your feet!
A Shepherd’s help-mate, bred to heard the flocks on dale and hill,
This dog would work all day, not tire and then be running still,
So, unless you do have livestock, taking up agility,
Obedience or flyball will provide activity!
But Collies are much more than this, their sensitivity
To every thought of your’s is matched by endless loyalty.
On windswept walks or by the fire and sleeping at your side,
Your faithful friend’s a confidante in whom you can confide.
They’ll share you joys and sadness and love you come what may,
Their playfulness will make you laugh and brighten every day.
Intelligent, fit, funny, kind, intuitive and smart,
A working partner, loving friend, they’ll always steal your heart,
Of their unparalled devotion, you always can be sure.
You dearly love your colie, yes…..but they will love you MORE!
~Catherine Hamilton © 2022
ODE TO A BASSETT HOUND
The Bassett is a low-slung hound
Not far distant from the ground.
His ears are long, his voice is mellow,
In aspect, quite a mournful fellow.
Short of leg and long of girth
He swings along, nose to the earth,
And finding some enticing trail
He signals joy with waving tail.
Perhaps for hounds, that should be “stern”?
I would be very pleased to learn!
When on the scent, attempts at bawling “heel!”
Are vain, for deaf to calling,
The hound, loyal to the task in hand
Will cover miles and miles of land.
At others times, his love of leisure
Is demonstrated in his pleasure
In being cuddled quite a bit
Should you ask him to baby-sit.
His length extended on your rug
Means many arms can share a hug.
Patient, stubborn, noble, kind
A dog who always knows his mind,
he’s one who likes his peace preserved,
And most content when dinner’s served.
The somewhat comical appearance
Of this hound with slight ground clearance
Takes nothing from his noble nature
For he is great beyond his stature.
Although his height sets him apart
The Bassett is a GIANT AT HEART!
(c) Catherine Hamilton 2020
Catherine's Attic 