Puppy

I run my fingers through his thick, black fur,
his tail wagging energetically, and unconsciously,
thudding against the wall, no flinching pain,
as he pants heavily, nuzzling against my legs,
looking up into my eyes in unconditional love.

My hands find his soft ears
like the hands of a young woman,
and my heart leaps in joy
as I smile back into his canine smile.