Merry Christmas from the Ebon Great Dane Deer

The Night Before Christmas

'Twas 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 Danes were nestled, all snug in "MY" bed
While visions of chewie toys danced in their heads
I in my sweat pants and Dad in his sweater
Had just settled down to read the Great Dane Reporter

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 reindeer

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 Danes 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 very nice
I have in my bag toys and much more
Just tell me what you pups really long for"

My Danes talked to each other -- much to my surprise
And turned to Santa with tears in their eyes
"We have chewies 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 gentle giants, 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 he drove out of sight
"Merry Christmas to All and To All Dogs a Good Life"

Great Dane Version by Julie Ford