Songwriters: Foley, Red;When I was a lad and old Shep was a pup  Over hills and meadows we'd stray  Just a boy and his dog, we were both full of fun  We grew up together that way    I remember the time at the old swimmin' hold  When I would have drowned beyond doubt  But old Shep was right there, to the rescue he came  He jumped in and helped, pulled me out    As the years fast did roll, old Shep, he grew old  His eyes were fast growing dim  And one day the doctor looked at me and said  "I can do no more for him, Jim"    With hands that were trembling, I picked up my gun  And aimed it at Shep's faithful head  I just couldn't do it, I wanted to run  I wish they would shoot me instead    He came to my side and he looked up at me  And laid his old head on my knee  I had struck the best friend that a man ever had  I cried so I scarcely could see    Old Shep, he has 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      © DUCHESS MUSIC CORPORATION;    these lyrics are last corrected by Robert Kirkwood