When I was a lad and old Shep was a pup over hills and the meadows we'd stray
Just a boy and his dog we were both full of fun and we grew up together that way
I remember the time at the old swimmin' hole

When I would have drowned beyond doubt
But old Shep he was right there to the rescue he came
He jumped in and he pulled me out
Now the years rolled along and at last he grew old his eye sight was fast growing dim
Then one day the doctor looked at him and said well I can do no more for him Jim
With a hand that was tremblin' I picked up my gun
And I aimed it at Shep's faithful head
But I just couldn't do it oh I wanted to run and I wished they would shoot me instead
Well I went to his side and I sat on the ground and he laid his head on my knee
I stroke the best pal that a man ever had then I cried so I scaresly could see
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