December 20, 2007

I was thinking about my Pet Pals this week, and all the animals at shelters hoping they find forever homes with loving families. While I was pondering this I came up with a poem, which I offer for your entertainment.

Oh, and if you can't think of a present for someone, a donation to a favorite charity or animal shelter is ALWAYS a good choice. Merry Christmas!

'Twas The Night Before Christmas by Parker

“Twas the night before Christmas and all through the shelter

The puppies were sleeping in piles helter-skelter.

The kittens were snuggled up together in pairs

Their fur all fluffed up so they resembled small bears.

The bunnies, snakes, gerbils and rats

Slept blissfully unaware of the cats.

Old dogs slept curled on the worn cement floor

With one wary eye keeping watch on the door.

When suddenly loud noises shook them awake;

A THUMP overhead and the SCREECH of old brakes.

Was that someone stomping around on the roof?

A nervous young beagle responded with WOOF!

The front door opened slowly and who should appear?

Why Santa himself, and one curious reindeer.

“You’re coming with me!” Santa declared quite emphatically.

“Rudolph will sort you into groups systematically.”

Rudolph consulted a list as he sorted,

While excited young bunnies leaped and cavorted.

“Here Reggie and Blue, Rowdy, Wyatt, and Mugsy;

Now Sasha and Stephan, Lucy and Bugsy!”

Rudolph took a deep breath and called out more names:

“Norman, Willow, Tribble, Daryl and James.”

The animals joyfully jumped in the sleigh

And arranged themselves comfortably out of the way.

“The shelter is empty, it’s time to get going,”

Said Santa to Rudolph, whose nose was now glowing.

The sleigh took off smoothly and soon was in flight

Speeding along through the black silent night.

“Santa, where are you taking us?” squeaked a silly Min Pin.

“You’re on your way home now,” Santa smiled, scratching his chin.

And then each grateful animal was transported below

To welcoming homes decorated with lights all aglow.

Santa exclaimed as he flew out of sight

"Happy Christmas to all, and remember, DON’T BITE."

Chow for Now!

Parker

Questions or comments for Parker? Send them to Call7ForHelp@TheDenverChannel.com.

Would you like more information about Canine Companions for Independence, or perhaps be a puppy raiser? Call 1-800-572-BARK or go to www.cci.org for details.