Rescue Poem

The Reason

I would've died that day if not for you.

I would've given up on life if not for your kind eyes.
I would've used my teeth in fear if not for your gentle hands.
I would have left this life believing that all humans don't care
Believing there is no such thing as fur that isn't matted;
Skin that isn't flea bitten, good food and enough of it.
A warm bed to sleep on, a couch to stretch out on,
A deep, soft pad just for me by your chair,
Your loving, quiet voice to gentle the nightmares away.
Someone to love ME!
To show me I deserve love just because I exist.
Your kind eyes, your loving smile, your gentle hands
Your big heart saved me...

You saved me from the terror of the pound,
Soothing away the memories of my old life.
You have taught me what it means to be loved.
I have seen you do the same for other dogs like me.
I have heard you ask yourself in times of despair
"Why do I do it?"
When there is no more money, no more room, no more homes
You open your heart a little bigger, stretch the money a little tighter
Make just a little more room...to save one more like me.
I tell you with the gratitude and love that shines in my eyes
In the best way I know how

Reminding you why you go on trying.
I am the reason
The dogs before me were the reason
As are the ones who will come after.
Our lives would've been wasted, our love never given;
We would die if not for you.