A Rescued Pooch Poem

If I Were a Dog

Eve Gaal

If I were a dog

I’d forget about yesterday

and forgive you today.

I’d remind you to cuddle,

implore you to play.

I’d wait all day until you came home

 ‘til you read the mail and put down your phone.

I’d hold you in the highest esteem--

we...

you and me...

other family members--

the greatest of teams.

If I were a dog,

I’d sleep while you’re away,

anticipating your arrival,

ears perked against rivals,

Fiona's in charge

half awake,

I’d probably bark a lot,

worried you were caught-

held in a cage,

next to stinky mongrels filled with rage.

I’d imagine the smell

Of wet matted hair

strangers that tried to care

for unfortunate beasts carrying disease.

In my nightmares,

I’d remember fleas

landing on my fur--

the unforgettable stench of urine everywhere.

If I were a dog,

Pinky's eyes....

I’d lick your face.

Not to taste,

but only to kiss

the person who understood my heart.

The one who saw into my eyes,

had me leaping off the charts.

I’d have to wag my tail to convince you—

throwing myself at your feet for a belly rub--

my love is unconditional and true.

I’m sure you’d beg to agree--

our lives are better since...you rescued me.

Fiona with a rare smile

Pinky wagging