Dog Walk

The long brown basset
trots along the uneven stone
as if it were smooth marble
aided by a comically low
center of gravity
and stabilizing ear flaps
completely unaware
that his woolen-capped owner
bent and hobbling
has given up the chase
released the leash
to concentrate on navigating
the tricky terrain
the old boy stops
and looks back to his old man
woofing a reminder of all
the adventures the two have shared
until the leash is taken up again
and at a much slower pace
they round the bend together