| When I was a lad and Old Shep was a pup |
| O’er 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' hole |
| When I would’ve drowned beyond doubt |
| Shep was right there, to the rescue he came |
| He jumped in and helped pulled me out |
| So the years fed along and at last he grew old |
| His eyesight was fast growin' dim |
| Then one day the doctor looked at me and said |
| «I can’t do no more for him, Jim» |
| With a hand that was trembling I picked up my gun |
| I aimed it at Shep’s faithful head |
| I just couldn’t do it, I wanted to run |
| And I wished that they’d shoot me instead |
| I went to his side and I sat on the ground |
| He laid his head on my knee |
| I stroked the best pal that a man ever found |
| I cried so I scarcely could see |
| Old Sheppie he knew he was going to go |
| For he reached out and licked at my hand |
| He looked up at me, just as much as to say |
| «We're parting, but you understand» |
| Now Old Shep is 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 |