Ode to Pumpkin the Dog (2023)

Ode to Pumpkin the Dog

As I rub your gentle belly

I'm reminded of a baby's soft and warm skin

As you lay there with your eyes closed and sighing one of your deep sighs

I remember to be here, in this very moment

At first you shook with fear and apprehension

When your mommy and daddy left you here as they went on their road trip to Yosemite

But soon enough you responded to my gentle petting and reassuring voice

You are so good about pooing on cue

Except when John walks you, marching you like a soldier

When I take you walking to the little neighborhood park

I let you explore the grass, tree bark and pine needles covering the ground 

And when you stop for a while and enjoy the cool late summer breeze

I too get to stop and enjoy the color, sound, feel and smell of the moment

Whenever I go to different parts of the house

You follow and I can hear the clink clink of your metal tags

Sometimes you come looking for me and you gain some speed and your little paws slip and slide on the hard wood floor

And when you finally find me, you jump up and give me a hug, excited

When I'm feeling anxious or entertaining not so nice thoughts about myself

All I have to do is look at you lying there on the floor next to my feet

And pet your little sleepy head

You don't smile but your eyes speak words of love and affection

Your little licks tell me I'm part of your pack

I didn't know what to expect when I agreed to dog sit

But I now know why people fall in love and find friends in dogs

You are a gentle soul and I'm thankful I got to know you

I hope I get to spend time with you again soon, my snuggle, nap and dance partner

Until then, may you encounter many lizards on your walks

I'll miss you Pumpkin 🐕🐾

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