(Clyde ‘Red' Foley, Willis Arthur)

When I was a lad and old Shep was a pup

Over hills and meadows we'd stray.

Just a boy and his dog, we were both full of fun,

We grew up together that way.



I remember the time by the old swimming hole

When I would've drowned beyond doubt.

But old Shep was right there, to the rescue he came,

He jumped in and helped pull me out.



Well, the years passed and rolled and old Shep, he grew old,

His eyes they were fast growing dim.

Then one day the doctor looked at me and said,

“I can't do no more for him, Jim.”



With hands that were tremblin', 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 wished they would shoot me instead.



Well, he crawled to my side and he looked up at me,

He laid his old head on my knee.

I'd lost the best friend that a boy ever had,

I cried so I scarcely could see.



Well, old Shep he is gone where the good doggies go,

No more with old Shep will I roam.

But if dogs have a Heaven, well there's one thing I know,

Old Shep has a wonderful home.