You've lost your taste for rolling in the trash, no longer chew up logs on the lawn. There's no more ball of sheets and blankets on the bed. The perfect yellow lab I love is gone. The sticks you choose are shorter than before. Where's the dog who lived to retrieve? You can't be dying cause I'm not ready yet. I cling to you and beg you not to leave. When we swam you towed me with your tail. When we ran, you pulled me up the hill. When I cried, you sat by and licked away my tears. When I was cold you took away the chill. Now you howl, you're ready for the end, lying blind, paralyzed on the floor. You gave me everything, you sweet and gentle friend. And now you don't have to suffer anymore. When we skied, you ran knee-deep through the snow. When we hiked, you carried your own pack. When we drove, you watched the road with your head on my shoulder. I'd give anything to have my Caspar back. I ask for a piece of your heart, assurance that a love like ours endures. We hug chest to chest, and with your final breath, I'm kindled by a glow I know is yours.