I just noticed them the other day

At the tip of your snout

Not yet bright, but devoid of color, we’ll say

A small patch of hypopigmented puppy furs

On my pillow in the morning, kissing me good night

Just above, white whiskers

I’ve got a few white streaks too

A sign of our time, sweet pup, me and you

I see you limp on that shoulder sometimes

You sense the pinch in mine

I’m so glad we went to the beach today

You know I’d choose you over winning the lottery

You teach me about life as it ought to be

Playing on the beach, meeting new friends, unaware of self

I wish I could express to you the joy you bring

Hanging out with you is everything

I love watching you sleep

We’ve shared the bed for five years

I’m gonna give you the best life

I know one day you’re gonna leave me in tears

It’s bedtime now

Let’s go to the beach tomorrow

How much time’s left, we don’t know

But I sense the white invading – faster than I’d like

Time moves swiftly like a sharp knife

So let’s cuddle, let’s play tug, let’s run

I love you so much, Billy

Into your ear I whisper

And give you a kiss on those golden puppy whiskers