One day less

I wake
Get up, shower
Wander downstairs
My dog is on the sofa
The head raises
His coat is looking rough
He's curled up , but doesn't move 
C'mon Ben rise and shine.
He slowly ,jerkily gets up
His back is slightly arched 
His tail halfway between his legs
Slowly wags
I'm doing my best dad!

Its time
We've worked together 10 years
I swallow the sob 
Give Ben a hug
Tell him it's ok and I love him.
Bugger
Ring the vet. 
We slowly walk to the tractor
It's the grand tour
I chat about everything
Telling Ben how much he's added
We stop and just watch the sheep

My phone rings
The vet is here
I drive the long route through the wood
Carry Ben into the kitchen
My wife and the vet are waiting
I don't bother to hide the tears
His leg is shaved
A brief injection
And in my arms the light left his eyes 
Bugger bugger bugger
A hug from my wife
Into the tractor 
Sheep to care for
Buts it's empty and quiet
There's a silent space
Bugger!!