Each day, when I kneel down to pray, he curls up in my arms.
I thank the Lord for Happy Dog and all his "dachsie" charms.
I thank God for his playful ways and for his kisses, too.
I ask You, Lord, to guard his health. I place my trust in You.

I thank You, Lord, for every breath, this little doggie takes.
I thank you for his wagging tail each morning when he wakes.
I thank you for the joy he gives, and all the jokes he makes,
Like how he steals my slippers, giving them such "vicious" shakes.

He runs dashing through the house, crying, "catch me, if you can!" And I'm delighted in my heart; a willing fool, I am.
I know, Lord, there will come a day, I'll have to say "good-bye."
Yet, even then I'll trust in You; Although it makes me cry.

I trust in You to carry me through that dark and lonely place;
And heal my heart, as I recall, his little, laughing face.
I know that you will be there, and you'll wipe my tears away; Perhaps in Your great mercy, I’ll be with him, there, one day.

The Bible says, in Heaven we'll be free from every care;
But I can't imagine Heaven unless Happy Dog is there.
So, if I am presumptuous, I trust You'll understand
I’ll willingly walk the road ahead, If You'll only hold my hand.

 © Jaye Lewis, 2001