i’m afraid of the last time
i’m going to walk the dog
it’s not that he’s sick
mind you
he seems to be
in pretty good health
though he’s missing most of his teeth
and has more years on him than any dog
i’ve ever had
but it’s the not knowing the last walk
will be the last walk
that grinds its teeth
in my ear when i lean over to pet him
or wave the air frantically
because of his secret gas attack
so secret
that if it’s silent
he doesn’t even notice it
so i have to remind myself
to not get impatient
or tug at the leash
when he want’s to stop
and sniff ever message on our walk
i don’t want the last thing
i said to him to be
hurry up
Words and Feathers 
I didn’t know you had a dog? Oh, such a sweet poem! What’s your dog’s name?
His name is Bodhi. We’re not sure what he is. Looks like a Rottie/Shepherd mix, but he’s only about 40 pounds. And he’s between 15 – 18 years old.
Are you Buddhist? I think Bodhi must be lucky to have you.
Kind of? I’m not much of a chanter or meditator, and I’m not a vegetarian. But I do appreciate the worldview
He’s pretty happy with us. We got him from a rescue group about 13 years ago. I’m the one who feels lucky.
Feed him good stuff. I think he deserves it!
What am I saying – I’m sure you do this already.
Ha ha ha! Yeah. His food costs more than mine.
How lovely! It’s been fun as always. 💖
Just beautiful. Made me think about any parting we have. Is this the last thing I say to you?
Thank you!
A poem I wish I’d written, well done .
Thank you! Those are always my favorite kinds of poems to discover.
I’m identifying. WIth you and with your dog. Super poem, one for the memory bank—thank you.
You’re very welcome! Thanks for reading.
I can identify with this, even though we have cats now. But it’s sad when a pet, dog or cat, gets old. I’m glad he’s in good health.
😀🐶