Doggy at the Centre.

He got us into same place.
Social coordinator.
Never happier, the little Doxy.
Went into his
Circle the pillow
Ritual.
Plumped down and smiling.
(Thoroughly convinced
Dogs smile. Didn’t Lassie
Littlest Hobo?)
Fireplace crackling.
Most Sunday afternoons.
Laughter in the group.
One Son home from college.
Doxy had stayed beside
Him throughout.
Glued together since puppyhood.
Now we saw grey
Around his muzzle.
Slower skip up the back step.
But just let a single
Squirrel enter HIS yard.
Whammo!
The little sausage
Is all energy and hunt.
(The breeders used to hope
For successful badger hunts
Using the digger Doxy.)
Persistent little Tyke.