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 by the old swimming hole
When I would’ve drowned beyond doubt
But old Shep was right there, to the rescue he came
He jumped in and helped pull me out

Well, the years passed and rolled and old Shep, he grew old
His eyes they were fast growing dim
Then one day the doctor looked at me and said
“I can’t do no more for him, Jim”

With hands that were tremblin’, I picked up my gun
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

Well, he crawled to my side and he looked up at me
He laid his old head on my knee
I’d lost the best friend that a boy ever had
I cried so I scarcely could see

Well, old Shep he is gone where the good doggies go
No more with old Shep will I roam
But if dogs have a Heaven, well there’s one thing I know
Old Shep has a wonderful home