Nitpicks: None. Maybe I'll look at recent poems instead of going to the r/v/c forum more often; this is the second one in a row I haven't had to pick apart for grammar, spelling, and usage. :P

It's funny that I didn't really think about the title until I read this stanza:

They enjoy the little things
Like a treat here and there,
A walk around the block,
Being praised for coming when called,
And all the love and affection that follows

I read the line "Being praised..." and thought, hmmm... that's a little odd, and then I realized it was talking about your dog. Being a huge dog lover myself (we have 7 in our backyard right now, 4 of them puppies that should have been gone 2 months ago according to the local laws) I think I can say I totally understand every part of this poem, including the deep feeling after the loss, which non-pet-lovers might question. Anyway, the poem was great (especially the last few lines before the memorial) and let's hope together that all dogs really do go to heaven!

Even though I've never had a dog, I've always wanted one and I feel your pain. A dog is like having a best friend no matter what u say, how you look, or how you feel that day. A dog will always love it's owner no matter what and that is extremely precious. My deepest sympathies to you.

Beautiful poem, I adore animals,

Don

A wonderful dedication to your dog friend.

Em