Old Shep

When I was a lad

An’ old Shep was a pup

Over hills and meadows we’d stray

Just a boy and his dog

We were so full of fun

We grew up together that way

I remember the time

By the old swimmin’ hole

When I would have drowned beyond doubt

Ah but Shep was right there

To the rescue he came

He jumped in and helped pull me out

The years rolled along

And old Shep he grew old

His eye-sight was fast growing dim

Then one day the doctor

Looked at me and said

“I can’t do no more for him Jim”

With a hand that was trembling

I picked up my gun

I aimed it at Shep’s faithful head

But I just couldn’t do it

I wanted to run

I wish that they’d shoot me instead