This poem was published in The Avenue Journal, Issue X: Dogs
Dog Treat
by Brian Gotta
Waking my dog to feed her
a small piece of cookie
as she lies beside me
while my wife and I
watch a show in the dark.
The softness of her muzzle,
she takes it gently in her mouth,
quiet but for a small crunch
or lick of her lips.
Her eyes as she looks at me
I think, with gratitude,
but probably just wondering
if there is any more.
My hand on her silken fur
feeling her sigh and drift back to sleep.
Brian Gotta has authored seven books in various genres. His writing has appeared in Esquire Magazine and AC/DC Literature. He is currently working on his latest novel, due out in 2026. He resides in San Diego, California. His books and music can be found on his website, BrianGotta.com or follow him on instagram & facebook.
You can purchase The Avenue Journal Issue X: Dogs in paperback at Bookshop.org, or, if you prefer it in digital format, you can download the ebook in .epub format for pay-what-you-can (suggested donation $9) at ko-fi.