GUMBY

Thou was my god, my saviour, my hero.
And it shatters my heart into smithereens to let you go
But on this Mother’s day it’s the greatest gift I can give my son
It is time to accept, there’s no hope and your suffering must be done

Met Gumby and Saskia on my first ever visit to CLAW
And now both of those I most adore
Long before their times they did depart
They leave just questions and a vacuum in my heart

This agonizing anguish seems unending
No heartfelt condolences you’ll be sending
Can ever bring this exceptional soul back to his mum
He was the best dog ever and worshipped and adored by everyone

It’s over now my stoic precious one
The honour and pride I had in you my special son
You won over people far and wide
Wait for me until I cross that great divide

People I meet in the park don’t know me,
But rush up to you and embrace my Gumby
Walks to Sakia’s bench will never be the same
Without people meeting us and greeting you by name

I shall miiss your big black nose prodding me for a cuddle or a treat
Those great eyes, brown pools of wisdom now just show defeat
Oh you fought my brave, brave son, you fought the greatest fight
Now may the angels carry you up to the light

Your eyes grow dim, your breathing slows
As you fade away my heartbreak grows
You take part of me with you, as you depart
But lots of you will always remain in my memories and my heart

RIP Gumby, my CLAWbie, Paws for People Therapy dog
Time to leave this cold merciless, suffering fog
And run once again, bounding happy and free
Until we meet again, my Gumby and me

—Dido Blagden—14th May 2017