'T'was the night before Christmas and all through the

house, Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care

In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there

My dogs were nestled, all snug in "MY" bed

While visions of chew toys danced in their heads

I in my sweat pants and Dad in his sweater

Had just settled down to read the CHC newsletter

When up on the roof there arose such a clatter

I sprang from my chair to see what was the matter

Off to the window I flew in a flash

Tore open the shutter and threw up the sash

The moon on the crest of the new fallen snow

Gave a luster of midday to the objects below

And what to my wondering eyes did appear

But a miniature sleigh and eight tiny reindeers

With a little old driver so lively and quick

I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick

With a sputter of ashes -- a flurry of soot

He slid down the chimney with all of his loot

My dogs stood there so regal and proud

Guarding their home with barks oh so loud

St. Nick showed no fear and called them by name

He knew in his heart they were gentle and tame.

He brought out his list, checking it twice

"Well, my beauties, all year you've been nice

I have in my bag toys and much more

Just tell me what you pups really long for"

My dogs talked to each other -- much to my surprise

And turned to Santa with tears in their eyes

"We have chews and balls and ropes to be tugged

We are pampered and coddled and petted and hugged

But for Christmas, dear Santa, we have but one care

That all dogs be loved as much as we are

We want no dog beaten, whipped or chained

No dog abandoned, abused or maimed

We want all dogs, no matter what size

To see love reflected in their master's eyes."

St. Nick stopped for a moment to gather his wits

"I have nothing to stop humans from being such twits."

All dogs are so beautiful and are such a treasure

Living only to be loved and give humans pleasure

This lesson I will try to teach

Then maybe your wish will be within my reach"

St. Nick leaned over and kissed each beautiful head

"Now you dear doggies, go off to bed

Think good thoughts and dream good dreams

Of running and jumping and playing in streams."

St. Nick turned to me, his face wet with tears

"Be proud of your babies, they are such dears."

In an instant St. Nick disappeared in a poof

And I heard him chuckle as he ran on the roof.

He jumped in his sleigh and to his team gave a whistle

And off he flew like the down on a thistle

And I heard him exclaim as the drove out of sight

"Merry Christmas to All and To All Dogs a Good Life!"