This poem is so fitting for animals with disabilities or elderly animals.  I've had this for quite sometime, but don't  think I've ever posted it.  Even if I have in the past, I feel it is so worth sharing again.

I'm Still Your Dog

Because I'm "just a dog" you see, I don't sigh and say, "why me?"  I just face it- go on livin' and play the hand that I've been given.

I need you more now, that is true, for there are things I just can't do.  The ball you throw I can't catch- I can't even lift my leg to scratch.

It's embarrassing a little- that I may need your help to piddle.  But if our roles they were reverse, I'd be proud to be your nurse.

But hey, I love you more than ever.  Me, give up?  Well yeah, like never.  I don't regret what cannot be- with you my friend, I'll just me me! 

I'm still me within my soul where it counts, I still am whole.  My back is bent and I'm quite lame, but in my heart I'm still the same.

by Julie Wrigley Smith

I am especially touched by the last line that even though an animal may be lame, their heart IS still the same.  Frankie demonstrates that to me each and every day… what a blessing our animals are!