He just appeared one day
This black and white, shepherd stray
Don't feed him is all I'd say
And may be he'll just go away
But he hung around like he belonged
Laid by the door and just kept on
Waggin’ that tail and hangin’ around
Like even being hungry wouldn't get him down

After three day I relented
Just like an old drunk who had repented
Okay, give ’em some food and take ’em to the vet
Maybe he'll be good for something yet

Well he was good for barkin’ mostly all night
And runnin’ off varmints that weren't right
He got along with the horses just fine
And we got used to him in time

But most of all he would tag along
Wagging that tail just like he belonged
No matter where I was or the time of day
He’d be around, sometimes in the way
Ever present whether I was workin’ or walkin’
Ears pricked up when I was singin’ or talkin’
Greeted me when I got down to work
Right at my heels or at my side he'd lurk
Whether feedin’ or mowin’ or just a sittin''
At my side whether I was happy or frettin'

Then came that fateful day
When I figured the cow dog would earn his pay
The cattle had found a way to get out
And I was tryin’ to turn ’em with about
Then I thought, okay cow dog do your best
But at my heels he came to rest
Watchin' while I wielded at stick
Chasin' them cows, licktey split

But just as the last cow went back in
Here old cow dog came again
As the steer stepped back through the hole
Cow dog jumped right in, makin' sure she'd go

Well, he ain't much at herdin’, this orphaned mutt
Not a cow will he correct or a bull will he cut
But I’m thinkin’ he's what GOD knows I need
Like a cool summer mornin' or a calm trusty steed
Seems like on my place wherever I might be
That black and white cow dog won’t let me be
Reminds me of GOD‘s promise, I've learned to own
That Jesus will never forsake me nor leave me alone

Ron Secoy