Stray Dog

He who is born in the ruthless streets of a busy city
I am without a home
A family
Nor a companion
I am all alone

My homes differ from time to time
Abandoned houses, alleys anywhere the streets welcomes me
I am at the mercy of the changing weather
Every day is a battlefield for survival
A gruesome cycle I only wish a good Samaritan may extricate me from

My matted fur is an infestation of ticks and fleas
I have grown accustomed to them to the point where I consider them my family
A fetid odor you may sense
That might be me passing by, turn a blind eye if you don’t mean well 
Please don’t charge at me
My weary bones have had enough for one day

Skinny as a toothpick
I make do with the leftovers you throw into the bin
The little I can find to see another sunrise is more than enough
I could cave in and just die in an alleyway somewhere
No one wouldn’t even feel a void of my passing
But my hope to one day have a place where I can belong 
Gives me the willpower to strive to see another dawn

To those who have shown me kindness
And only received a bark in return
Forgive me 
It isn’t because of hatred
It is because of my leery, dubious and fearful nature 
It is the only way I learnt how to survive
I am yet to trust the hands that have shown me no mercy countless times

I only ask you be patient with me
Be gentle with me until I no longer quiver at your touch
Until I can learn how to love and how to receive love
When that happens, I promise you my unequivocal love and loyalty
Just please don’t give up on me
Copyright © | Year Posted 2020

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Hawkens Avatar
April 19, 2020 at 11:00 AM
Though from the perspective of a dog, I can see this as a metaphor for a person living on the streets. It is difficult to trust anyone once your in this situation. Blessings to you, for this insightful poem. Written with such eloquence.
Zola-Zaba Avatar
April 21, 2020 at 10:24 AM
Your words brings a smile across my face JC , thank you for the lovely comments and thank you for having me ,I am happy to be here
Hawkens Avatar
April 19, 2020 at 11:02 AM
Welcome to Poetry Soup.
Lamoureux Avatar
March 31, 2020 at 9:26 AM
It’s not my choice but I am none the less a benefactor of you being here. Blessings Rick.
Lamoureux Avatar
March 13, 2020 at 9:18 AM
I like this poem about a dog that is not about a dog. Another touching piece. Welcome to the Soup, it is already a new thing because you are here.
Zola-Zaba Avatar
March 15, 2020 at 1:07 PM
I am honored to be part of this lovely community,Thank you for having me here!
Cohen Avatar
March 4, 2020 at 3:36 PM
You touched my heart with this one. I think many can relate to this, not only those of us who take in strays when we can and love animals.
Zola-Zaba Avatar
March 6, 2020 at 1:57 AM
Thank you very much Eric!
Rodrigues Avatar
March 2, 2020 at 5:56 AM
How beautiful that you show us the heart of a dog that is like a vagabond. I see them when I travel. I never before equated them to a man in a similar situation until now. Some great writing. You have a beautiful heart! Hugs...Kim
Zola-Zaba Avatar
March 2, 2020 at 11:51 AM
Thank you so much Kim Lots of love!
Cunningham Avatar
March 2, 2020 at 3:07 AM
Sadly there are many stray dogs and even people spurned by society. Well written Rercy. Tom
Zola-Zaba Avatar
March 2, 2020 at 11:45 AM
I am afraid so Tom, I am grateful for your comment!
Smalls Avatar
February 28, 2020 at 10:57 PM
Rercy, Thank you for this sad and all too common insight we see everyday. If dogs could talk, I'm sure they'd say that you nailed this one on how they feel and live. Thank you for sharing this.
Zola-Zaba Avatar
March 1, 2020 at 4:56 AM
Hey there Juanita, the pleasure is all mine dear and I am glad you enjoyed it.Thank you for your appreciation!
Thayer Avatar
February 28, 2020 at 8:15 PM
Rercy, being a lover of animals this pulled at my soul...wish I could save all dogs...and your rendition is penned well. Vjckie
Zola-Zaba Avatar
March 1, 2020 at 4:55 AM
Hi Vjckie, it's such a cruel world for such unfortunate innocent souls, I share your desire for a better world for our furry companions.Thank you so much Vjckie!
Hawley Avatar
February 19, 2020 at 6:42 PM
Yes, totally agree.
Hawley Avatar
February 19, 2020 at 6:41 PM
What a take from inside a stray dog's heart. It felt exactly what the voice of a stray might say.
Zola-Zaba Avatar
February 20, 2020 at 5:30 AM
Yes,Thank you very much!I am happy you can relate it from a stray point of view.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace