This was written in tribute for my first guide dog, Lassen. I received him from Guide Dogs for the Blind in 2006. He decided he wanted to retire at eight and a half years old.
How can I thank you, my friend,
Who stayed by me until the end
When you had to say this is all I can give
My friend, now go on and live
You were here for the good
You were here for the bad
You were there when I was glad
You were there when I was sad
No matter the day
No matter the time
You were ready to go
When the harness would show
We traveled many miles
Over the six years
In state and out
We found our route
For long hours you laid
For long hours you stayed
You showed you were able
You showed you were faithful
You have no idea how many lives you have touched
You have no idea how many loved you so much
You have no idea how many you cheered
How many smiled when you did appear
Thank you for showing me
What true devotion can really be
I love you my friend,
My Lassen, till the end.
— Betsy Grenevitch