The Hound that Found Me

I found this Hound!
I always bellowed
With exceptional sound,
Yet no louder
than the howl that quickly followed.

With extraordinary ears
Flopping under her paws,
She possessed a stealthiness
That everyone could hear.
You were the cutest puppy
My lonely, aching eyes ever saw.

I found this hound!
Was persistently told
To each and everyone around.
With previous owners so cold,
How fortunate you were
That you were sold.

Watch out!
Because the tables turn
Oh so quickly!
So fast,
It almost made me sickly!

For this Hound I found,
Who howled every time
I came home
And whimpered each time
I left her alone,
Grew older and older.

She grew strong and wise
And somehow always knew
When and how to console my cries.
With her long, colorful body
She became the world’s best
Cuddle buddy
And, despite my flaws,
My best friend too.

It took many years
With you by my side
To overcome the fears
Chaining me inside.
Deep down,
I always knew
With each droopy-eyed stare
And every slobbery kiss
I was the fortunate one.

Now it’s my time to be strong
While you take your final sleep.
I must admit I was wrong.
You were never the hound I found.

You were the hound that found me.