August 31, 2019
House Call Veterinarian
It’s four o’clock on a Saturday
The day is about to begin
There’s a friendly kitty lying next to me
And here I am writing poems
Yawning, stretching…gearing up for a busy day
Here we go once again
It’s kind of magical
So I just hang on for the ride
One more day off the calendar
Help my pet you’re the veterinarian
Do something quick and painless
We all love him dearly and want something now
You have the bag of tricks for us
Now Toby has been a patient for years
He keeps me focused, oh yes
And now it seems there are many tears
But don’t cry quite yet, I have an idea
He looks at me with those sad brown eyes
And seems to smile just the same
I think this beast is beautiful and so wise
Let’s come up with something clever
Now Sadie is her mother’s dog
Tail always wagging and head held down
She longs for love and attention
Which she receives ten-fold or more
And Chloe wants her piece of the action
As Doc examines and treats her sister
These two dogs are heaven sent for sure
And such a joy to everyone they meet
Help my pet you’re the veterinarian
Do something quick and painless
We all love him dearly and want something now
You have the bag of tricks for us
It’s a great year for this vet practice
And my business coach gives more advice
Because she knows this career is a dream to me
Coming from Dad’s wishes and Mom’s cheers
And we are ramping up for 2020
This whole thing is coming together
With the best staff in the whole world
And a sister who is incredible
Help my pet you’re the veterinarian
Do something quick and painless
We all love him dearly and want something now
You have the bag of tricks for us
- inspired by the song, “Piano Man” written and performed by Billy Joel in 1973
August 2019
This poem/song is an inspiration from a very emotional at-home euthanasia...the owner went outside in the morning and saw a cloud in the sky in a perfect shape of her dog's head. We did the euthanasia and the moment I told the family their pet had passed, the heavens opened up in rain. Kind of strange or a sign??? Here is what I wrote...
Climb the Rainbow Bridge
Let us rest easy,
Bo is finally sleeping in peace.
We are sad for this loss
Here in our home.
So we called Dr. Bayne this morning,
After seeing that cloud in the sky,
And we all cried About seeing Bo leave us.
“Alan”, I said As we all sat in the room with him,
This all seems to be a dream to me now.
It took him sixteen years
To melt his way into our hearts.
He’s ready to climb the Rainbow Bridge.
Crying about this,
Kissing him on the nose,
He looked at us as if to say I’ve had enough
And need to go.
I said, “Let’s get more turkey
And really let him enjoy.
” We all know he deserves it,
He has been a trooper through All of this pain.
We loved on Bo those last hours,
He loved us back;
He told us over and over I’m ready.
“Julie”, be strong”, I said
Though I knew it was hard.
These empty and lost feelings
and I can’t erase them.
Counting the minutes
And hours awaiting.
Doc and Chris just arrived
To set up the Rainbow Bridge
They are setting up the Rainbow Bridge
They are setting up the Rainbow Bridge
Strange how the rain is now pouring down
Yes, strange how the rain …………
- inspired by the song, "America" as performed by Simon and Garfunkel and written by Paul Simon in 1968
April 2019
Dedicated to living the life of a house call vet.....
I’m Gonna’ Live Life Fully
My friends are animals
Love you unconditionally
Can’t match their love of life
So we try to imitate
I don’t have their sixth sense
I don’t have their olfactory
It’s not all about you
It’s about helping fellow man
I’m gonna’ live life fully
Let’s all do the same
and give back
I’m gonna’ round up friends
Some we’ll have to tame
Others treat for being lame
Just look out
I’m gonna’ live life fully
I’m gonna’ live life fully
I truly love my job
Although doesn’t pay near enough
The rewards are super sweet
Every time I see you smile
I hop skip and jump about
You run to me, I run to you
Is there something wrong that’s new?
Let me check in sort of a que
I’m gonna’ live life fully
Let’s all do the same
and give back
I’m gonna’ round up friends
Some we’ll have to tame
Others treat for being lame
Just look out
I’m gonna’ live life fully
Since I still can
I’m gonna’ live life fully
And be a man
I have a Jeep and yes
A nice stethoscope that’s best
You have a fancy clinic, but yet
My clients take care of me
Every town I turn up in
You run to me, I run to you
Is there something wrong that’s new?
Let me check in sort of a que
Is this all an illusion too?
I’m gonna’ live life fully
Let’s all do the same
and give back
I’m gonna’ round up friends
Some we’ll have to tame
Others treat for being lame
Just look out
I’m gonna’ live life fully
Since I still want to
I’m gonna’ live life fully
And give it a go
- Inspired by living the life of a home town vet and the song, “I’m Gonna’ Soak Up the Sun,” written and performed by Sheryl Crow
Dedicated to a friend named Peanut......
A True Friend
I’m always here for you
I’m always here for you
As those storms grow, let them be
‘cause they can’t touch you
I will block their way
I will wag my tail and rub against you
Girl, I’m always here for you
Oh, I’m always here for you
I’m always here for you
I’m always here for you
Your road is rough, lean on me now
Those bumps will soon be straight and smooth somehow
I’ll cuddle right next to you, yes and wow!
Ya’ know, I’m always here for you
I’m always here for you
Another one seems at peace
Has it all together, just perfect too
World by the tail, all hail
Who knows
Yeah, they do not have what we do
And never will
Just reach your hand out
Time moves on, always does
Doesn’t change things for us a bit
Even though we both take a hit
Hold tight, I’m always here for you
I’m always here for you
I’m always here for you
--- inspired by the song, “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” from “Toy Story” soundtrack; written by Randy Newman
August 2017
Yes, it has been a long time since this page has been updated. I love to write and had not stopped during this time lag; just not had time to place the compositions on the website. This one is a little self-service, I admit. It is about me and how I grew up. I grew up on an apple orchard in the Saginaw valley. Always with animals, a favorite was a Black Labrador named Kelly. She was my constant companion until I went away to college. I remember the first time I brought my girl friend home (who is now my wife), Kelly lay on the floor in our house just staring at her. Many memories for sure. In college, it was all about the chase for the grade to get into veterinary school.
Run for the DVM
Born in the valley
And raised with such love
Of central Michigan
In blooming apple trees
A lovin' mother, yes,
to guide you along
She kept you honest and strong
A bright playful puppy
On river flats so hot
Those mosquitoes abounded
Crows always above
These all helped to shape you
For life up ahead
Try to be the best vet ever was
And it's the chase for that grade
As best that you can
Your score is up there posted
Tell me if I made it
Truly the chance of a lifetime
You have to make it count
Now just keep your focus
And make that mark
Yes, just keep your focus
And make that mark
Now you made it
Take advantage of it
The mind of your mom and
The will of your dad
What legacy
If any at all
Will you leave when you're gone
This drives you and moves you onward
And it's the chase for that grade
As best that you can
Your grade is up there posted
Tell me if I made it
Truly the chance of a lifetime
You have to make it count
Now just keep your focus
And make the mark
Yes, just keep your focus
And make the mark
- inspired by the tremendous song, "Run for the Roses" written and performed by Dan Fogelberg
October 10, 2015
It is a special feeling to have a house call veterinary practice and be on the road traveling from home to home to treat pets. There is something about this feeling that really excites me. This special buzz inspired this song written to an old favorite by The Beach Boys:
Helping God's Creatures
Wouldn't it be nice if Doctor Bayne
could make every pet as good as new?
There'd be no pain and no more sufferin'
Just a happiness that is true.
They'd get the better life that they deserve now
Doctor Bayne and Chris would be so happy
Oh, if it could only be so easy
To live in a world where such things are true
If only there would be no worry, no more sadness too
To put their wag back to where it belongs
Happy times together, they've been driving
I wish that every call had such a good ending
Yes, I truly do
Maybe if we pray to God and love those critters, it might come true
But then again you've got to til that garden before it bears fruit for you
We can never heal all
Even though we'd love to
Helping God's creatures
Doctor Bayne and Chris can make pets much better
All it takes is a call and they're on their way
Rain or shine, despite the weather
Helping God's creatures
You know the more we give our hearts to others
It only makes us cry to think about it
But let's go for it now
Helping God's creatures
Rest up my small one
You've got to help yourself too
Rest up my small one
You've got to help yourself too
- inspired by "Wouldn't It Be Nice" as written by Brian Wilson, Tony Asher, and Mike Love on the Pet Sounds album in 1966
"Helping God's Creatures" written by Dr. Norman Bayne and Lori Bayne-Forrest
April 27, 2015
Last week, saw a dog named Nolie who had run his last race. After much diagnostic work, I was able to find he had lymphosarcoma. There is a very sad story as Nolie's aged owner was in a rehab facility nursing a broken shoulder and suffering from Allzheimer's disease. She had not seen him in a few weeks. I was inspired to write a song after this experience.
Pass the Baton
On a long and lonesome highway
east of Rochester.
I listened to that heart beat
and the muffled weak lung sounds.
She tried to remember that dog
yes, the friend she had for so many years.
But it was not to be this cold morning
even though we both tried.
We'd been ridin' twelve long hours
with so very much to do.
It gets harder with each loved one
we just pray for better news.
Say, here we go
On the road again
There we are
In your home
Here we are
Playin' hero again
or at least tryin'
Pass the baton
Yes, we walk into the owner's home
not knowing what lies ahead
All eyes are upon us
as we're tryin' to warm up
You pretend to have confidence
but sometimes it is easier said than done
Sometimes they growl at us
other times wag that tail
The same physical exam routine
"Is that a murmur I hear?"
How do I break the news this time?
You don't want to make them sad
Ah, here we go
On the road again
There we are
In your home
Here we are
Playin' hero again
or at least tryin'
Pass the baton
Out there on the road
we're just a phone call away
We try to extend our passion
try to give it away
As our minds reach for solutions
to help these poor critters out
When the calls are done
as I type on this computer
With the voices of the clients
runnin' through my mind
You say this is it,
but you're up twenty minutes later
Now, here we go
On the road again
There we are
In your home
Here we are
Playin' hero again
or at least tryin'
Pass the baton
Yes, here we go
On the road again
There we are
In your home
Here we are
Playin' hero again
or at least tryin'
Pass the baton
There we go
Pass the Baton
There we go
There we go
- inspired by "Turn the Page" Lyrics Bob Seger; Songwriters Tony Wood / Barry Weeks / Jim Brady
December 24, 2014
Worked at a clinic today where a grand soul of a Great Dane came in; let's call him Porsche. He was only 3 years old and had some severe life threatening clinical signs. I did what I could and tried to get the owners to take him to emergency asap. They questioned everything I did and just argued why emergency care was needed. He started turning losing body heat rapidly. He was semi-comatose when we wheeled him out of the clinic on a guerney. My last words were pleading them to take him to emergency. Maybe I will find out tomorrow if they did do so and if he made a recovery or passed away.
This was inspired by the very emotional song, "Some Gave All" recorded by Billy Ray Cyrus; the piano music in this composition is what really makes my version a tear-jerker.
Porsche
I met a dog called him Porsche, many folks knew him well
And a gentle soul, yes was he
He left home that night, sent quickly to emergency
I still don't know what was wrong
or the reasons he was restless
I can't forget the look in his eyes or the love he showed
As he presented these signs to me
Many gave some, he gave all
He stood there with his deep pride and love
yet, he had to fall
And if you ever think of your favorite ones
think of all the love he showed
And recall, he gave all
Now Porsche is no longer here, but his love remains with me
it comforts me late at night
For all of us he gave it all, he played with time and fell short
He helped me yes he did
He loved the family with all his soul
Yes he made a difference in their lives
Porsche, can't you see
Many gave some, he gave all
He stood right there with his deep pride and love
yet, he had to fall
And if you ever think of your favorite ones
think of all the love he showed
And recall, he gave all
And if you ever think of your favorite ones
think of all the love he showed
And recall, yes recall, he gave all, he gave all
- inspired by "Some Gave All" written by Billy Ray Cyrus and Cindy Smith
December 23, 2014
I wanted to be a vet since the age of 6, largely due to watching a man named Dr. Tessman; my Dad's best friend. His son, Harold, was my best friend.
It seemed that the lure of helping animals came with thinking that all can get well. Sadly, not true. The one's that we do help however, keep us going. The puppies we see bring a smile to our faces.
This song is one sung by The Beach Boys entitled, "I Can Hear Music." There is a version on www.youtube.com by Kathy Troccoli and The Beach Boys that is absolutely breath taking.
I Can Help You
Ahhhhhh oooooo
This isn't the way
I always dreamed it would be
It's much different this day
Oh, when I am holding you
I've grown up with many animals
Maybe that's why I used to think
I would help all
I would help all
The sad truth is not all can be healed
Oh, I can't heal all
No, not all
I try to listen to you, just once
And gather a plan
Helpin' them
It keeps me satisfied
It's quite a rush, oh yeah
The way it makes me feel
You wag your tail, bob your head, and then
Lick my face and here we go again
I can help you
I can help you
Your gentle body, so soft to me
Oh and, I can help you
Yes, yes you
Whenever we meet again
Whenever I come
I'd like to help, all the time, yeah
I'd like to help, hold still now little one
I think there's a chance
There is a chance
I'd like to help
Ahhhhh
I can help some
I can help you
Just be patient with me now let's think
Oh and, I can help you
There is a chance
When you hold still little one
When you hold still
- inspired by "I Can Hear Music" written by Jeff Barry, Ellie Greenwich, and Phil Spector as performed by The Beach Boys
December 22, 2014
Christmas break in 1979, I had the opportunity to stay at a vet clinic in West Virginia and ride on calls with them. This clinic was what is called a mixed practice where they saw both large and small animals. The large animal calls were mostly dairy given their location near Pennsylvania.
I slept in the vet's office on a pull out couch and made dinner in a kitchenette right in the clinic.
One morning, I woke up and decided to exceed all expectations the vet may have held for me. I decided to walk ALL the dogs in the clinic before the clinic opened. I picked up a miniature dachshund, grabbed a leash, and stepped out in the brisk December morning. The dog's nails made a tick, tick, tick, tick sound on the cold asphalt. Tick, tick, tick, Tick, tick, tick. Soon, I found myself holding on to a leash no longer attached to the dog, yet there was still this tick, tick, tick towards the trucking route of State Road 30 through Chester, WV.
Well, I found myself chasing this dog towards the highway much like a kid chasing a basketball, rolling down the driveway. The little dog continued to be just outside of my hands; tick, tick, tick; tick, tick, tick.
Soon, I heard a loud HONK, HONK, HONK. I looked to my left and a huge semi was barreling down the road. Tick, tick, tick. My life flashed before my eyes in an adrenaline rush. Tick, tick, tick.
The dachsie kept going and went under the truck and out of view. The truck zoomed by with air swirling.........tick, tick, tick. The dog happily kept trotting towards the other side of the road; tick, tick, tick.
Well, I ran over and picked up the little mutt and walked back to the clinic quickly. Before opening the door, I looked at the clasp on the leash and the spring was missing!
The worst part of this whole story was I told the vet when he came in that morning! Why didn't I just keep it to myself? No one would have been the wiser. He raised his voice in anger at me and said, "We DO NOT walk dogs in this clinic!" Oh, wow!
Well, later that break, I met Gail and her family on a rest stop along I-80 and we went to New Jersey to celebrate Christmas. One day, we went in to New York City. A most memorable Christmas, indeed.
I changed the words to the classic song by Roger Miller, "You Can't Roller Skate in a Buffalo Herd" to fit this experience.
Hope you all enjoy:
Ya' Can't Walk a Dog in West Virginia
Ya' can't walk a dog in West Virginia
Ya' can't walk a dog in West Virginia
Ya' can't walk a dog in West Virginia
But you can catch him if you're that fast
Ya' better get him back in the vet's clinic
Ya' better get him back in the vet's clinic
Ya' better get him back in the vet's clinic
Yes, right now. Hop to it.
All ya' gotta' do is put your mind to it
Knuckle down, buckle down, do it, do it, do it
Well, they still let ya' ride on the calls with them
They still let ya' ride on the calls with them
They still let ya' ride on the calls with them
Yeah, they haven't sent ya' home quite yet
Baa doo awl do all do da
Bool do ool da ul ul do ahh
Baa doo awl do all do da
Bool do ool da ul ul do ahh, da da da
You're gonna' meet Gail on I-80
You're gonna' meet Gail on I-80
You're gonna' meet Gail on I-80
A Merry Christmas to be had by all
We're gonna' go into New York City
We're gonna' go into New York City
We're gonna' go into New York City
See some sites I've never seen before
All ya' gotta do is put your mind to it
Knuckle down, buckle down do it, do it, do it
Well, now on back to West Virginia
Now on back to West Virginia
Now on back to West Virginia
To get that sought after experience
Ya' sure missed Mom and Dad back home
Ya' sure missed Mom and Dad back home
Ya' sure missed Mom and Dad back home
But they fully understood why
Ya' sure missed Mom and Dad back home
[Spoken]: " Ya' sure missed Mom and Dad back home"
[Fade]
Ya' can't walk a dog in West Virginia
- inspired by "You Can't Roller Skate in a Buffalo Herd" written and sung by Roger Miller
December 22, 2014
Death and sadness are both something veterinarians face every day in their jobs. We deal so very much with emotions of loving clients. Please know that your feelings are shared by your veterinarian. We never totally get used to it. There have been many an at-home euthanasia where I have driven away and burst into tears. I don't think it makes me less of a man. Just a more caring one. Following are a few inspirations along these lines. The first one is from the classic song, "Hallelujah." Jeff Buckley has a beautiful version of this one. If you have the time, listen to his version while reading mine:
Hallelujah
I've heard there is a magic drug
That Doc has, it's just like a bug
But you can't look at this, not quite yet
It goes like this
Sedation, wait
Clip and prep
The final shot, then it's all done now, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Your faith was strong but you needed proof
I plan to return again soon
Years ago, I turned many a head in the room
But now no one looks my way.
Life broke my bones, ruffled my hair
And from my soul He drew the Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Don't worry I've dreamt this before
I know the route, from song and lore
I used to wander alone way before I knew ya'
I've seen the food on the cedar porch
You watched me from the window sill
It's a warm and it's a whole Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
There was a time when I was king
And you would always begin to sing
But now you never do that for me, do ya'
And remember when I made ya' laugh?
Made ya' smile, made ya' gasp?
And every moment was such a Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Yes, there is a God above
For you and me and those we love
Life is meant to give before it evens happen to ya'
It's a baby's cry deep within the night
A young one's first attempt at flight
It's a warm and it's a whole Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
You say you gave my name to me
I love it and will cherish it
I carry it forever, yes and I do love ya'
There's meaning in every single word
Does it really matter if they heard it?
And every moment was such a Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
I gave it my all, was it enough
Yes, I could feel and also touch
I've told the truth, I didn't come to fool ya'
But did it really all go wrong
When I stand before the Lord of Song?
With words on my tongue of Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah
- inspired by "Hallelujah" written by Leonard Cohen
Phone Call Away From Your Home
Tear drops fell on your sad face
When you heard the things I said
She said, I'll miss her so
Please give me a little more time
Well I didn't have to think
It was sad yet so very obvious
Now I'm just a phone call away from your home
Away from your home, yes your home
She's cold and tired, all alone
Yes, I'm just a phone call away from your home
It's hard to tell how she feels
Is she hurting, is she in pain
God has a plan, I truly believe this is true
The Lord knows all the things we've done
And we're forgiven for all of them
And, I'm just a phone call away from your home
Away from your home, yes your home
She's cold and tired, all alone
Yes, I'm just a phone call away from your home
Can't remember when she ate, it's just hope and pray and wait
And, I'm just a phone call away from your home
If her luck was just right, she'd be feeling better tonight
And, I'm just a phone call away from your home
Away from your home, yes your home
She's cold and tired, all alone
Yes, I'm just a phone call away from your home
Lord, I'm still just a phone call away from home
- adapted from "500 Miles (Away From Home)"; songwriters - Hedy West, Bobby Bare, Charlie Williams....this was inspired by the version sung by Reba McEntire
Please note that this is from when we went to remove the pain from a 150 lb Bull Mastiff. He seemed to know what I was there for and would not take his eyes off me the whole time. This is him singing to us:
Tears and Long Faces
So you speak to them of how it works and just how long it all takes,
The fear that is within me now is ever building up,
and the hopes I have for all of you shall never disappear,
and you tell me to relax and be calm; you want to be my friend,
and I wonder what is happening, why the tears, why the long faces?
You both cannot accept this, it is inevitable for all those great and small
seeking acceptance and eternal love;
and in the end we rest in peace with the Father up above.
For all of God's creatures are my kindred souls and friends,
their joyous play and love for all will make us smile today.
You are both the whole world to me and the love of my life,
you're my safety and security, my hope for tomorrow.
Yes, my thoughts start to get fuzzy and I sway back and forth,
the room is slowly spinning and I cannot focus much longer.
I have heard it said that I should let go, give up and be free,
he tells you this is the right thing, I am going to a better place.
In my very own way I will clear the path for you both.
For all of God's creatures are my kindred souls and friends,
their joyous play and love for all will make us smile today.
My very last prayer for you is to believe, believe forever,
stroke my forehead as I slowly slip away.
- inspired by "Rhymes and Reasons" written and performed by John Denver
December 22, 2014
I go to bed early and rise early. Spend much of my time in the wee hours of the morning reflecting on the previous day(s) and listening to music. My inspirations jump into my head and I get the itch to write:
Early Morning Hours
In the early morning hours
With a pen in my hand
And emotion in my heart
And such empty pockets, yes
I'm so very alone
and I miss Boots so
In the early morning hours
with dim light shown
Out on Rochester Road
that Sebring set to go
But, I'm almost out of gas
with cold buildings passing by.
Well, that breakfast tasted good
and the pets all were well.
Now we're off once again
we're rolling down the road.
Hear Doc and Chris pull up (repeat)
See those bags they bring in (repeat)
They are here now to help
Right next to you, we sigh
Where further harm won't come
and you'll feel better soon.
You'll be up and at 'em again
in a very, very short time.
Now we have to pack and run
it is now time to go.
For another awaits down the road
to get their chance to heal.
You can call Doc Bayne
like anyone else.
So we'd best be on our way
In the early morning hours
So we'd best be on our way
in the early morning hours.
- inspired by "Early Morning Rain" written by Gordon Lightfoot in 1966 and recorded by Peter, Paul, and Mary in 1967
December 22, 2014
An elderly had a pet the other day and requested a simple rabies vaccination. Let's call this dog Skip. Skip was having a real hard time breathing. I started my physical exam and could not even hear the heart with my stethoscope due to the harsh lung sounds. When I got to Skip's mouth, he had very large, irregular masses on both sides of the upper gums. This was most likely squamous cell carcinoma, a very aggressive and vicious cancer. In Skip's case, there was no question in my mind that this cancer had spread to the lungs. I delicately tried to explain that Skip had a major health issue. Tears came to this gentleman's face and he explained that he had a severe medical condition himself. He was on a fixed income and his wife could only work three days per week due to her own disability. This was by far the hardest rabies shot I've ever had to give.
I Hope You Can Help
It's a little bit strange
this condition in me.
I'm not one of those
who can easily express.
Don't have much money
on a fixed income.
I'd love to help Skip
so he can walk free.
If I were a younger man,
but then again no.
Or a man with connections
in the world today.
I know this is not much,
but it's all I've got.
Skip is my world
so, please help him out.
Then you can feel proud
you helped poor Skip.
It's a simple request
now, there you go.
I hope you can help,
I hope you can help,
I pray this today,
"Skip please get up,
yes, please show me a sign."
Doc looked at poor Skip.
He rubbed his chin and thought.
With a puzzled look
he slowly started to talk.
This world is quite cruel.
It's not fair at all.
Dogs like Skip
are far and few between.
Please excuse me here.
I don't quite understand.
You see I don't know
all that medical jargon.
Anyway, the thing is
what he really needs
is to feel better soon.
Then you can feel proud
you helped poor Skip.
It's a simple request
now, there you go.
I hope you can help,
I hope you can help,
I pray this today,
"Skip please get up,
yes, please show me a sign."
I hope you can help,
I hope you can help,
I pray this today,
"Skip please get up,
yes, please show me a sign."
- inspired by "Your Song" written by Sir Elton John and Bernie Taupin; sung by Sir Elton John
December 22, 2014
Doesn't everyone have fond memories of their pet, be it cat, dog, horse or bird, present or passed? This one tells of our cat Boots who lost the battle with lymphoma. I miss Boots so. He used to wait for me to come to bed. Then he would hop up on my chest and look towards the ceiling. I used to pet him and tell him he was the "lion king." Lion King, yes, a grand movie. If you have the opportunity, listen to the beautiful piano playing of Sir Elton John as he sings "Can You Feel the Love Tonight."
It' Enough
There's a peaceful feeling at the end of day
When you stand on my chest and look skyward
Such a special moment, between you and me
Makes me proud to say that we live together, me and you
Oh Boots, I feel the love tonight.
Can you feel it too?
It's sure enough for this simple-minded man.
Yes, it surely is.
Boots, can you feel this love tonight?
Do you feel it too?
It's enough to make two souls touch
for time and eternity.
There's a chance for everyone if they only allow
that God will give them such a friend just so easily.
There's a purpose to everything, to all chance meetings
when two creatures heart's beat in unison and eyes lock together once more
Oh Boots, I feel the love tonight.
Can you feel it too?
It's sure enough for this simple-minded man.
Yes, it surely is.
Boots, can you feel this love tonight?
Do you feel it too?
It's enough to make two souls touch
for time and eternity.
It's enough to make two souls touch
for time and eternity.
- inspired by "Can You Feel the Love Tonight" composed by Sir Elton John with lyrics by Tim Rice
December 22, 2014
Jim Croce has always been one of my favorite artists and I love the song, "Hey Tomorrow." Finally found the words to this one, in my style. My words sum up so many patients we see in veterinary medicine. This one is a patient singing to me and me singing back:
Hey Doc Bayne
Hey Doc Bayne, what are ya' thinkin'?
Do you have a plan for me?
'Cause night is fallin' and God is callin',
I'd like a new body if you will it.
Hey Jimminy, I don't do magic.
You do deserve it, now yes you do.
I'd love to reverse this terrible course of events.
Life is unkind to those who are like patron saints.
We all have wasted and so taken for granted
all the things the good Lord gave to us.
And we've loved, been kissed, and missed,
And we've been held in such high, high esteem.
Hey Jimminy, you've gotta' believe now.
That you can pull through this if you just try.
'Cause night is fallin' and God is callin',
You'll have a new day if you hold fast.
'Cause you've been loved, been kissed, and missed.
And you've been held in such high, high esteem.
And you've given more than you've ever taken.
And you've been loved by those close to you.
Hey Doc Bayne, what are ya' thinkin'?
Do you have a plan for me?
'Cause night is fallin' and God is callin',
Yes, you can have a new body if you will it.
Yes, you can have a new body if you will it.
- inspired by "Hey Tomorrow" written and composed in 1968 by Jim and Ingrid Croce
December 22, 2014
As a teenager, I had the opportunity to ride on a couple calls with a large animal vet by the name of Dr. Howard Tessman. His son, Harold, was my best friend. I became enchanted with traveling from farm to farm. Later, as a pre-vet student at Michigan State University, rode with Dr. Gary Hegenauer, another fine man. I was bitten by the traveling vet bug:
Traveling Vet
I am a traveling vet for Oakland County and I drive Rochester Road
Thinkin' about you in the wee hours of the night
I can see you in my thoughts, I love this drive
And the traveling vet is still on the road
I would love a small vacation, but this will not come true
For you need these meds to get around because it hurts
And I need you, oh I want you, and this job keeps me going
And the traveling vet is still on the road
And I need you, oh, I want you, and this job keeps me going
And the traveling vet is still on the road
I'm a traveling vet and still on the road
[Guitar Interlude]
And I need you, oh, I want you, and this job keeps me going
And the traveling vet is still on the road
I'm a traveling vet and still on the road
- inspired by "Witchita Lineman" composed in 1968 by Jimmy Webb and sung by Glen Campbell
December 22, 2014
The song "King of the Road" may be one of my all time favorites. Following is my version:
Tryin' my Best
Puppies just down the road
Kittens for free, take ya' one
For sure, by gosh, you bet
adopt one today, yeah
Ah but, six weeks of feed and clean
gets ya' one or two, yes sir
I'm a vet, sure 'nuff, on the road
Tryin' my best
We're here, sleek Sebring
Destination: Your Home Town
Stetson hat, worn out shoes
I pray daily, yes I do
I use the best vaccines known to man
pure and very effective
I'm a vet, sure 'nuff, on the road
Tryin' my best
I know all of your pets by given name
And all of your children, they're special to me
And every eatery in every town
Every gas station on the route when we drive by
I sing, puppies just down the road
Kittens for free, take ya' one
For sure, by gosh, you bet
adopt one today, yeah
Ah but, six weeks of feed and clean
gets ya' one or two, yes sir
I'm a vet, sure 'nuff, on the road
Tryin' my best
Puppies just down the road
Kittens for free, take ya' one
For sure, by gosh, you bet
adopt one today, yeah
Ah but, six weeks of feed and clean
gets ya' one or two, yes sir
I'm a vet, sure 'nuff, on the road
Tryin' my best
- inspired by "King of the Road" composed and sung by the one and only, Roger Miller (1964)
December 15, 2014
Saw an eight-year old Wheaton Terrier today that two months ago had surgery on one hind leg for a ruptured cruciate ligament. Let's call him Jasper and his owner Jill. Both had been through so much over the last two years as Jasper had been diagnosed with a very large tumor on his side that required very expensive surgery to remove. Then two months ago he was happily chasing a squirrel and made a quick turn rupturing the cruciate ligament in his right knee. My visit today found him walking only on three legs while holding the right hind up, non-weight bearing. The joint was painful and he was so sore in his left rear leg from carrying the entire load of his hind quarters. I did blood testing finding his liver and kidneys in good order and increased his dose of Rimadyl and added Tramadol. Before I left, I referred Jill to a pet rehabilitation clinic. She looked at me with tearful eyes and said, "Dr. Bayne, I am not a rich woman. I love Jasper dearly, but have spent literally thousands of dollars on him." Still, I encouraged her to call the clinic to see what could be worked out.
Driving away, it was funny. The song Daydream Believer came on the radio and words immediately came to mind. Here you go:
"Eternal Believers"
Oh, I could lie 'neath the legs
Of good ole Jill as she cries
The traveling vet would never come.
But he's here, I try to rise
It's so painful that I sigh
My knee is so sore and it stings.
Cheer up, so sad Jill
Oh, what can we do?
For two eternal believers
And a house call vet.
You once thought of me
As a trusted companion and a friend.
Now you know how much I truly hurt
Oh, and our good times are at an end
With many dollars already spent
But how much, Jill, can we now give?
Cheer up, so sad Jill
Oh, what can we do?
For two eternal believers
And a house call vet
Cheer up, so sad Jill
Oh, what can we do?
For two eternal believers
And a house call vet
[Instrumental interlude]
Cheer up, so sad Jill
Oh, what can we do?
For two eternal believers
And a house call vet
[Repeat and fade]
- adapted from "Daydream Believer" composed by John Stewart shortly after leaving the Kingston Trio; performed and popularized by The Monkees
December 14, 2014
A call yesterday from a client who owned a kitty for over 19 years moved me. Her emotion and concern with the inevitable brought me to adapt this song to the situation.
"Such Love"
I'm the cat across Oakland county, toxins are building up,
my survival weighs heavy on her soul.
There's a vet out on the roads now, couple miles away.
Prayin' he doesn't have to intervene,
prayin' that nature takes its course.
He's there if I need him,
though he'd much rather God tend to the call.
You have a fire softly burnin', love is always there,
and it's the smile in your eyes that I love so much.
Hey, it's good you have such love for me.
Sometimes this ole' house feels so safe and secure.
Yes, and hey, it's good you have such love for me.
There's all the aches and pains to relay, how I feel right now,
tell me, "What is in store for me?"
You called the vet just Saturday; I made you cry,
and you wished that I would get better, yes you did.
Hey, it's good you have such love for me.
Sometimes this ole' house feels so safe and secure.
Yes, and hey, it's good you have such love for me.
Oh, the time that I can lay this tired old body down,
and be embodied with the spirit of one much younger.
The kisses that I live for, the love that lights my way,
the happiness that living with you brings me.
It has been the sweetest thing I know of, spending time with you.
It's the little things that make a kitty feel at home.
Like a fire softly burnin', love always around,
and it's the smile in your eyes that I love so much.
Hey, it's good you have such love for me.
Sometimes this ole' house feels so safe and secure.
Yes, and hey, it's good you have such love for me.
Hey, it's good you have such love for me.
Sometimes this ole' house feels so safe and secure.
Yes, and hey, it's good you have such love for me.
Adapted from "Back Home Again" written and performed by John Denver
December 14, 2014
"Dogs, Cats, and Treatments"
Verse 1)
I've been lately thinking 'bout my house calls, all the things we do and the good it's done.
And I sure do believe, hope you do too, your furry friends do like to see us come.
I've been on a lot of calls, been bitten once or twice, given my passion to your loved one, yeah.
I've known those puppy's pleasures, healed many, said goodbye to several others.
Chorus)
And I'd like to show you now, we love your furry friends, yes we do.
It's really fine to have a chance to visit with you,
driving near and far and pullin' up to your own home.
While all your friends and family trust us with your prized possession.
And talk of dogs and cats and treatments, and things that we can do.
How sweet it is to cure your pet, how nice it is to help.
How long you've owned this little one, what about tomorrow?
And what about the dreams and memories you keep?
Verse 2)
Days are filled with many calls now, the nights are sometimes short.
Your dog there next to me whispers when he hurts.
These symptoms sometimes concern me, still I have to believe.
It excites me to think of his continued health.
For my client's have been good to me, there's still many to see.
So many things are still out there, oh yes.
I'd like to keep movin' on, I'd like to drive away and play my music on the car's radio.
Chorus)
And I'd like to show you now, we love your furry friends, yes we do.
It's really fine to have a chance to visit with you,
driving near and far and pulling up to your own home.
While all your friends and family trust us with your prized possession.
And talk of dogs and cats and treatments, and things that we can do.
How sweet it is to cure your pet, how nice it is to help.
How long you've owned this little one, what about tomorrow?
And what about the dreams and memories you keep?
Adapted from "Poems, Prayers, and Promises" written and performed by John Denver
December 14, 2014
A song written by Christine, LVT
The Cat's in the Potty
Verse 1)
This guy arrived just the other day
Got a Stetson on his head, not a lot to say
He's a traveling vet, goes out of his way
Comes to your home any time, any day
Verse 2)
Got a dog in trouble? Your cat needs vaccines?
Geriatric animals? This vet's pretty keen
Diabetic pets? Won't have much to pay
With a car full of bags, he called ahead to say
Chorus)
Get the cat in the bathoom, we'll be comin' soon
Don't wanna' chase runnin' room to room
Got a towel if we need it when we're goin' in
A kitty party in the potty soon, yeah...a kittly party in the potty soon!
Verse 3)
The cat isn't sure...what's goin' on?
A simple exam, well, that is the plan
A hiss and a growl now, we're havin' a ball
A shot to the hip, an exam that's all.......'Cause
Chorus 2)
The cat's in the bathroom, not much here to do
Didn't wanna' chase runnin' room to room
Got a towel if we need it, now we're goin' in
A kitty party in the potty now, yeah...a kitty party in the potty now!
Verse 4)
The visit was short...the doc doesn't stall
Written scripts and meds...this vet has it all
When your pets can't go out, and you wanna' stay in
Phone BMVS, but be sure when you call.............
Chorus)
Get the cat in the bathroom, we'll be comin' soon
Don't wanna' chase from room to room
Got a towel if we need it when we're goin' in
A kitty party in the potty soon, yeah...a kitty party in the potty soon!
Adapted from "The Cat's in the Cradle" written and performed by Harry Chapin
December 5, 2014
If You're Going
If you're going to the veterinarian.
Why not have a house call one come to you?
If you’re going to the veterinarian.
You’re gonna’ meet some sick animals there.
For those who use a house call vet.
Exam time will be so much easier there.
In the comfort of your own home.
Gentle vet with a Stetson on his head.
All across Oakland county, such a great innovation.
Vets in motion.
There’s a whole profession with a new strategic plan.
Vets in motion, vets in motion.
If you're going to the veterinarian.
Why not have a house call one come to you?
If you’re going to the veterinarian.
You’re gonna’ meet some sick animals there.
For those who use a house call vet.
Exam time will be so much easier there.
- adapted from “San Francisco”, sung by Scott McKenzie; written by John Edmund Andrew Phillips and Paul Hutsch
August 3, 2014
Recently visited a home with a dog experiencing old-age problems. On the way home a song played on the radio inspiring me to re-write the words to an old favorite tune telling this story.
The Veterinarian
(harmonica introduction)
It's 9 o'clock on a Saturday
I pull up to the house on time
There's an old dog just lyin' there
Thumpin' his tail on the floor so kind
(harmonica interlude)
His eyes seem to plead, "Help me out Doc..."
I'm not really feelin' too well
Yes, I'm sad and used up
and definitely in a rut
Than when I was a much younger pup
la la la la la la la la la la la la la
CHORUS:
Heal my dog you're the veterinarian
Heal my dog today
Well, he is in need of a treatment
And you've got the meds for some pay
(harmonica interlude)
Now Max on the floor is a patient of mine
He loves everyone so true
And his eyes light up when you look his way
But his calling is upon him very soon
la la la la la la la la la la la la la
My client John says, "Doc, this is killin' him,"
as tears came to his tense face
"Well, I just want to know if he's suffering
I can't stand to see him like this."
Now Martha has always had Labs
That's how she met ole' John years ago
They're both pettin' Max, who's lyin' on his back
and may not rise again, don't you know
Oh, la la la la la la la la la la la la la
Well, Max still wags that thick tail
and moves his head so frail
John and Martha just glance at each other by chance
Are they soon to be without their best friend?
(harmonica interlude)
CHORUS
A question arises inside of me, "What now am I to do?"
They just look to me with heavy silencee
And I know it is me they called for Max to see
To give that magic pill or pull out a vial
And the air swirls around me in fury
And the alcohol smell bites in my nose
And they sit next to Max, pleading for a chance
And ask, "Doc, what CAN we do?"
(harmonica interlude)
CHORUS
"Let's check Max's bloodwork out
then give Previcox a shout
Maybe we can add some months
where he'll be somewhat spry
John and Martha called me five days later
Max was up and walking, playing like a pup
No accidents in the house, he made it through the door
He seemed somewhat back to his jovial self
(harmonica interlude)
CHORUS
(harmonica postlude with fade out)
- adapted from "Piano Man" written and sung by Billy Joel