When I was a lad and old Shep was a pup over hills and meadows we'd play   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 swimming hole   When I would have drowned beyond doubt   But oldShep was right there to the rescue he came   He jumped in and helped pull me out   Now the years they rolled by and old Shep he grew old   His eye sight at last it grew dim   Then one day the doctor looked at him and said I can't do no more for him Jim   With a hand that was trembling I picked up my gun   And I aimed it at Shep's faithful head   But I just couldn't do it I wanted to run I wished they would shoot me instead   Now old Shep is gone where the good doggies go   And no more on this earth will he roam   But if dogs have a heaven there's one thing I know old Shep has a wonderful home