Christine thinks that because I was born in Stratford-upon-Avon I might be related to the immortal bard and I should try my hand at writing a poem so - here goes!

(with aplogies to William Shakespeare)

All the world's a walk and all our four-legged friends are merely walkers

They have their setting off and coming home

and one dog in her time has many roles.

At first she is the cuddly puppy

Innocent and charming in her clumsyness

And then the young dog, always keen to learn,

Each new trick a jewel in her crown.

Some dogs are to a working life assigned

Some fight crime and others lead the blind.

Guarding a warehouse or bringing in the sheep

Happy that their talents have been recognised.

They hold their heads up high and fix you with a gaze,

that says it all. "I've proved my usefulness"

No less important are the family pets

Unparalleled in loyalty and charm

Fetching a slipper or a stick

for Prince or poor man (to dogs they're all the same)

Let's not forget the cruel hand of Fate

deals some poor dogs a less than happy home

Some are rejected, like last season's coat

and tossed aside, or, even worse abused

All power to those who strive to end this wrong

and give these uncomplaining creatures Hope.

For man, and dog old age is still the same,

the bones will start to ache and senses fail.

But pleasure still is seen in nice warm fire,

a tasty meal, kind words and pat on furry head.

And dreams of puppy games, in comfy bed.

All about me

Hi I am called Promise and I was born a very very long time ago in a place called Stratford on Avon. I don't remember them but I am told that I had two sisters and three brothers. We all had names beginning with the letter P. There was Poppy, Prince, Pierce, Phyllis, Pebbles and me! I wonder what happened to my brothers and sisters and I hope they have had as happy a life as I have. When I was a puppy I was looked after by Ian and Barbara and they took me for lots of walks and taught me how to be a good girl. Then when I was a year old I went to train to be a guide dog. This is a very responsible job and it made me feel very important but it was hard work. Unfortunately I had to be retired early because I had some fits but luckily for me Ian and Barbara took me back to live with them and I had a great time going for long walks in the countryside, lazing in the sunshine in their big garden and generally - well - just not working. Just recently Ian and Barbara have decided to do a bit of travelling abroad so I have come to live with Christine. She has just retired so we are having a great time just doing whatever we fancy.