It was the old ones that touched my heart
And brought a tear to my eye.
A lump formed deep in my throat
As in splendor they flew by.
Sweet faces smiled and ears pinned back
All heads were high and proud
To cavort and bark for a master's whim
They charmed an applauding crowd.
The glorious coat that comes with age
Glistened and shined with care.
Some eyes were dim, some muzzles white
A tooth missing here and there.
I find this class the hardest to judge.
Each one better than the last.
All veterans of so many great wins and
Reminders of a glorious past.
Once exhibited in their prime
Tonight they’ll curl up tight and sleep
Upon our laps and in our beds
As they dream of liver treats.
Though I've placed them one through four
In all honesty I feel they know
We give them all awards of blue and
Each one is Best In Show.
We catch our breath and swallow hard
Not a dry eye in the crowd.
Take ‘em around and bless their hearts!
These Veteran Dogs do us proud!
