Charlie

Charlie was a chipper chap
A dapper dog was he
He had no tail, but did not fail
To wag his rear with glee

About his breed, we'd not agreed
Though if we saw his family tree
I do believe we'd likely see
A labradour amidst the leaves

His coat was black, besides a patch
Of white upon his chest
One fateful day, his face turned grey
And long became his rest

In youth, he lept through swathes of grass
Blades he chewed while racing past
He'd sprint for a stick whene'er 'twas thrown
Though he'd not return it, but chew it alone

When rain did dampen Raya's hair
Charlie groomed her coat with care
When Raya had reason to visit the vet
He'd worry and whine, confused and upset

When greeting, he'd stick his snout
Right in one's face
Old Charlie could not fathom
Personal space

Though it was near empty
His head was quite heavy
And gladly he rested
Wherever he could

Sometimes he would nap
With his head on a lap
Or lay his old chin
On a chair

A small wooden box
Now sits on the cabinet
Nameplate to tell
Of the ashes inside it

Beside it another
Like sister and brother
Mem'ry too heavy
To carry it

You will not hear
Yet will I say
Your numerous years
Have all brightened our days