When I was a lad
And old Shep was a pup
Over hills and meadows we'd play
Just a boy and his dog
We were both full of fun
We grew up together that way
I remember the time
At the old swimming hole
When I would have drowned beyond doubt
But old Shep was right there
To the rescue he came
He jumped in and helped pull me out
Now the years, they roll by
And old Shep, he grew old
His eyesight, at last it grew dim
Then one day the doctor
Looked at him and said
"I can do no more for him, Jim"
With the hand that was trembling
I picked up my gun
And aimed it at Shep's faithful head
But I just couldn't do it
I wanted to run
I wish they would shoot me instead
Now old Shep has gone
Where the good doggies go
And no more with this earth will he roam
But if dogs have a heaven
There is one thing I know
Old Shep has a wonderful home