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 at the old swimmin' hold

When I would have drowned beyond doubt

But old shep was right there

To the rescue he came

He jumped in and then pulled me out

As the years fast did roll

Old shep he grew old

His eyes were fast growing dim

And one day the doctor looked at me and said

I can do no more for him jim

With hands that were trembling

I picked up my gun

And aimed it at shep's faithful head

I just couldn't do it

I wanted to run

I wish they would shoot me instead

He came to my side

And looked up at me

And laid his old head on my knee

I had struck the best friend that a man ever had

I cried so I scarcely could see

Old shep he has gone

Where the good doggies go

And no more with old shep will I roam

But if dogs have a heaven

There's one thing I know

Old shep has a wonderful home