I would've died that day if not for you.
I would've given up on life if not for your kind eyes.
I would've used my teeth in fear if not for your gentle hands.
I would have left this life believing that all humans don't care

Believing there is no such thing as fur that isn't matted,
skin that isn't flea bitten, good food and enough of it,
beds to sleep on, someone to love me,
to show me I deserve love just because I exist.

Your kind eyes, your loving smile, your gentle hands
Your big heart saved me...
You saved me from the terror of the pound,
Soothing away the memories of my old life.

You have taught me what it means to be loved.
I have seen you do the same for other dogs like me.
I have heard you ask yourself in times of despair
Why you do it-

When there is no more money, no more room, no more homes
You open your heart a little bigger,
stretch the money a little tighter
Make just a little more room...to save one more like me.

I tell you with the gratitude and love that shines in my eyes
In the best way I know how
Reminding you why you go on trying.
I am the reason

The dogs before me are the reason
As are the ones who come after.
Our lives would've been wasted, our love never given
We would die if not for you.