Kathy McKeon wrote this poem in tribute to service dogs and their partners, shortly before she was matched to her own beloved service dog, a chocolate Lab named Rebel. She notes that Rebel "is sometimes my arms, sometimes my legs, and is always in my heart". Kathy's poem speaks eloquently of all the gifts we obtain from our cherished animal companions, and of what little they ask in return from us.   When I perform a task for you,  a quick pat or a kind word are all the thanks I need.  When you hurt, I try to make you feel better  with my silly antics and my persistent desire to comfort you. When your legs or arms don't work, mine will gladly take over for you.  If I can save you steps or if I can reach what you can't,  tell me and I will retrieve it for you.  All I need in return is love. When pain or despair fills your day, let me relieve it.  I give kisses that have healing powers and I provide warm companionship.  I do it gladly, for you are mine and I am yours,  and all I need is love. "Bad days" are not in my job description:  I work for you and provide for you  under almost every condition known to man and dog.  If I can't help you, due to an injury or illness,  I am still worried about you and concerned for you,  and all I need is love. The days may be long and full, but still,  I do my best for you, my partner, because this is my very life. I live to help you  and all I need is love. In the mornings, rain or shine, snow or sleet,  I am ready to do my job to the best of my ability.  In the afternoons and evenings, I am still helping you any way I can.  All I need is love. When nights are long and quiet,  I am still alert and waiting to assist you. Just call my name and I am there.  When nights are long, and tossing and turning is what you're doing,  I am ready to soothe you and help you find sleep.  All I need is love. Today, tomorrow and every day,  I am there for you in many ways.  My job is to serve you.  My joy and my reason for being  is to assist you to do whatever you can't do alone.  This is what I live for.  And all I need is love. Some people call me hero - perhaps I am.  Day after day, hour after hour,  I am there for you: helping, loving, helping, loving.  And all I need is love. -- (c) 1995, by Kathleen McKeon  AbledByK9@aol.com