Two years of training, 
Knowing only work and sleep,
Enjoying food and the vest,
Cold concrete my home at night.
 
I get to meet a person to work with.
He doesn’t like me and is cruel.
Sixteen hours feel like years.
He takes me back and says I’m no good.
 
I work harder; I try my best; I will be the best.
People come and go; other dogs come and go.
I stay here; I’m no good.
I keep trying and doing my best, but I know I’m no good.
 
A vet comes in who seems nice; he will choose someone else.
They all choose someone else.
They are taking me to the workroom. Why?
Do I have to teach another puppy?
 
That nice vet is here; he is waiting.
He tells the workers he wants my hair cut to look like his.
He pets me and is nice; I know it won’t last.
We work together; he has another dog; she is big but nice as well.
 
Soon I get to go home with him.
I sleep on carpet and a bed.
I get to eat at the same time as the man and woman.
They even have squeaky things; I’m not sure about them.
 
The man calls himself Dad; the woman is Mom.
They will take me back; I’m no good.
Days become weeks; then weeks turn to months.
Is the little human giving me commands? 
He calls Dad, “Pop Pop.”
 
He and I are the same age. Man, is he bossy!
I love him with all my heart.
I am part of a family: I have a sister, three brothers, 
a grandson and most important a mom and dad.
I have found a home.
 
I am Good; I do Good; I help my vet.
We can go out now and he feels safe.
He doesn’t jump as much
and he can do the things other people do.
I also help him walk farther. 
I tell him when he needs to sit down.
 
Dad loves me and needs me.
He cares for me and I care for him.
We work well together.
Mom doesn’t have to worry as much with me on the job.
 
My name is Gunner Hood.