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King Copper: Our dog's life in poetry

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When I knelt down to Copper's level, my heart melted. His amber, soul-searching eyes told me all I needed to know.



I recalled sitting at the table, perusing a Labrador rescue website. A lab sporting a copper-colored coat stood out like a citrine crystal in a bowl of black diamonds. I had to meet the handsome fellow.



So, on a late winter March day in 2012, my family drove to Oakland to meet Copper. A woman was fostering him in her small apartment. He had a gentle demeanor, and after a walk around the block and some play time, I was ready to take him home. My son and I were excited to welcome Copper into our lives. But my husband and daughter were hesitant to adopt another dog so soon. Would we be replacing Lucky Girl, our black lab mix, who passed just four months earlier?



Despite telling the woman we needed time to make a decision, only three days later, we found ourselves signing the adoption papers. Copper effortlessly jumped into the back of our car for a ride to his new home. We heard that the best way to get past the grief of losing a pet is to get a new one, and that's what we did. Lucky Girl would always be in our hearts. But after many conversations, we felt the timing was right. I, especially, couldn't shake the feeling that Copper was meant to be our next canine friend.



From the hugs, cuddles, and games of fetch, Copper learned to trust us. And so, he became family. For thirteen years, he gave us unconditional love. He crossed over the rainbow bridge this past MarchIt is serendipitous to know that he came into our lives in March and left our earthly world also in March - the month of new beginnings. He was a bright light in our lives that will shine eternally. This is the power of our dogs or any pet. They leave a positive, long-lasting imprint on our souls.

70 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 6, 2025

About the author

Lauren Scott

6 books17 followers
Author and poet, Lauren Scott, enjoys small-town living in the Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Their adult son and daughter live out of state, and with frequent visits and technology, the family of four remains close. Lauren has published four collections of poetry, a memoir, and her first children's book. Her latest poetry collection is a tribute to her family’s Chocolate Labrador who crossed over the Rainbow Bridge in spring 2025. Lauren is a recent Pushcart Nominee and has been a guest on several podcasts. Her writing is featured on Spillwords Press where she was voted Author of the Month and garnered Publication of the Month awards. She is a contributing author in several anthologies, and her work is shared bimonthly on Gobblers and Masticadores. Her muse discovers inspiration from her family, spending time outdoors, reveling in simple things, and marveling at the mysteries of life.

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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
Profile Image for Sally Cronin.
Author 23 books189 followers
September 13, 2025
Those of us who have had pets, know from the outset that their lifespan is not the same as ours. We can only hope that the years they are with us will be filled with love and fun for them and for us.

This collection of poems about the wonderful King Copper, is not just an expression of grief at his loss, but a wonderful celebration of his life. His goofiness, and ability to sense the mood of those he loves, as he sprawls, dances and makes mischief.

The family are so lucky to have enjoyed this devotion for 13 years, and the love they experienced will stay with them all their lives. The hardest decision is of course that final act of love to put an end to pain and suffering, but it does weigh heavy on the heart.

However, this collection also brings hope, that just maybe we will meet up again and if we are lucky, we will find all those family members who have passed over the rainbow bridge, waiting for us to pick up where we left off. They certainly do stay in our hearts in the meantime…

Always by Your Side

I see you dry your tears; how sad you seem to be.
Please know that I am here, but I’m also feeling free.
No more groaning in the night or whining in the day.
No causing you fright from being in pain.
I never went away; I’m sitting by your side.
Your sky won’t stay gray; it will turn blue and bright.
I’m sitting by your side; I never went away.
My love for you runs far and wide; I’ll never go astray.

Copper Boy

Whilst it does come with a tissue alert… these poems are also reminder of how amazing our pets are and what joys they bring to our lives.. I can certainly highly recommend.
Profile Image for D. Peach.
Author 24 books176 followers
August 26, 2025
Anyone who’s ever loved a dog (or another furred or feathered family member) will be able to relate to this lovely collection of poetry about the author’s Chocolate Lab named Copper.

Copper’s transition over the Rainbow Bridge and the author’s immense grief provided the inspiration to chronicle the lab’s personality, relationships, and life in poetry. The poems are heartwarming, joyous, funny, loving, and sad. A few of them are written from Copper’s point of view. The style of poetry ranges from silly limericks to deeply emotional free-form pieces.

The collection is written in two parts, each beginning with a short section of prose. The first piece of prose describes adopting Copper, the love-at-first-sight experience of meeting the perfect pet. The second describes losing Copper after 13 years and the author’s devastating grief. The poems in each section follow the theme accordingly.

Tour De Force (From the first part, a limerick)

Prancing on the left like a well-bred horse
Staying in step, no drifting off course
Stopping for sniffs
And frequent leg lifts
His character is a tour de force

Thunder Booms (From the second part)

No nails click
on the kitchen floor
house of silence
thunder booms

Between the poems are photos of Copper: smiling, playing, rolling in the yard, taking walks with his humans, and calmly contemplating life. Highly recommended to readers who have loved and lost a cherished pet and enjoy poetic memoirs.
Profile Image for D.L. Finn.
Author 25 books304 followers
August 11, 2025
“King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry” is a beautiful tribute that touched my heart deeply. The words brought back memories I had of losing our sweet dog a couple of years back and of remembering the joy she brought us too. Our pets are such a gift, and this collection not only shows that but also offers comfort to all of us who have known the loss of a beloved pet. Here is an example of the depth of emotions: “A dog barks in the distance causing me to pause,/it sounds like Copper’s wild imagination longing for one more moment”—One More Moment. I can highly recommend this for all those who have loved and lost a pet family member.
Profile Image for Nicole Sara.
Author 3 books5 followers
August 26, 2025
Lauren has put together this tender collection in memory of her family’s Labrador, Copper. Each and every poem in this book feels like a precious gem and a keepsake, Lauren’s verse carrying along the joy of companionship, the ache of farewell and the warmth of cherished memories. The poems are also accompanied by cute photos, elegant too… of sweet handsome Copper, photogenically posing or playing with family and friends.

There are the funny and playful moments, the gentle ones, the nostalgy and the love, the warmth and the togetherness… all captured wonderfully by Lauren in her poems. Several limericks are also part of the collection, so sweet… as is this endearingly cute memory she shares in "Copper Boy",
“When he smiles, his white choppers
shine as if they’ve never caused
any commotion…never mind
the afternoon when he attempted
to eat the barbecue!”

or a reminder of the purity of unconditional love, and the way it can transform our life, so beautifully described in "Whatever the Shape",
“Some walk on four legs
some walk on two
some purr with joy
some bark for a toy
some wear feathers for style
some wag tails for a treat
whatever the shape
the love is sweet
from a heart that gives all.”

The poems which warmed my heart in a enchantingly profound way was "Castanets", here’s an excerpt from it,
“…The sun’s gentle touch
adds a glimmer to his copper coat.
I pause, bending down to his level,
fingers stroke shiny, silky fur,
his eyes close, contented from contact…

When we move again, his nails on asphalt
mimic the clicking of two sets of castanets,
and in seconds,
I realize these observations are what life is all about…
seeing…feeling…smelling…listening…
being. “

and the short but very sweet, "My Best Copilot",
“I slide behind the wheel,
looking in the rearview
Where’s Copper, resting his chin
over the back seats?
missing my best copilot”

They are all touching, heartwarming poems, the whole collection being a deeply moving read and companion for anyone who has ever shared their heart with a four-legged friend. Lauren’s message seeps through it all, that what we can do, with the sadness left behind after their “crossing over the Rainbow bridge”, is think of them fondly, as they are still in our heart… and their love will forever be with us as long as we lovingly remember them.

I warmly recommend this wonderful poetry collection!
Profile Image for Vicki Atkinson.
Author 1 book9 followers
September 5, 2025
Lauren Scott's beautiful new book, "King Copper - Our Dog's Life in Poetry" stole my heart.

Sadly, one of the common denominators in life is loss. When those I care about - friends, family, clients, former students - reach out and share their grief about losing a pet, there's often a sense of shame about the depth and capacity of the torment. "After all," (a dear one said recently, speaking about the unexpected passing of her cat), "she was just a pet".

I saw what she was doing - attempting to minimize her pain with a reductive explanation. Self-talk intended to soothe, with words borrowed from a thoughtless one who used the phrase "just a pet" to offer consolation.

For many of us, our pets embody the qualities we long for in humans; especially those who disappoint us. Caring, loyal and loving, they ask only for those qualities in return - delighted by belly rubs and extra kibble now and then.

I was excited/nervous to read Lauren's tribute to her beloved Copper.
Excited because I know it was a labor of utmost love for Lauren.
Nervous because I knew "King Copper" would prompt tears. Lauren writes with powerful poignancy.

I embraced every word. Some tore at me, expressions familiar and raw about losing a predictable household rhythm...wrapped in fur.

But so many words made me smile.

Scratch that.
Grin.

I'm keeping my copy of "King Copper" at my desk, sitting next to my favorite basket. Such a face...such a sweet soul. Maybe he'll find his way to a bookshelf, but not yet.

This review is more than praise.

It's my heartfelt endorsement...perhaps a plea. "King Copper" is a worthy addition to your family library. A book you'll want to recommend - just as I have - to dear ones experiencing loss. There's comfort on every page, thanks to Lauren and her family. Thanks to Copper himself:

"I never went away; I'm sitting by your side.
My love for you runs far and wide; I'll never go astray."
Profile Image for Selma Writes.
55 reviews13 followers
October 4, 2025
I felt this author’s immense grief in King Copper: Our dog's life in poetry by Lauren Scott, but I also saw her light flicker on. Here's a quote I want to include and my honest thoughts:

“My candle burns, not to dispel the darkness, but to put forth the Light.” ~ Charlie Siegel.
Like Charlie Siegel's quote, this book might help you put forth the light.

The setup of the two parts works well, as do the color photographs. This short 70-page book (digital) is for anyone who has ever loved another person or pet—“love” being the keyword here— and has to go on living without them. How, you ask? Trust me, this book will help you discern the light that resides inside. And bring you comfort too.

The words in King Copper are heartwarming and lulling like whispered confidences in a comforting tone, like a messenger of the holy. Yes, the best I’ve heard this year. Just when you feel leafless and stark like a bare tree in winter from a recent loss, the bird in your soul will open its eyes, and locate the light; open its beak, and be encouraged to sing again. In your “house of silence” and you will “find your shadow”. That’s what this book will do. So if you think you need this kind of comfort, I hope my short review helps you decide on purchasing the book.

You might find the short 70-page​ book a bit pricey, like I did, but consider the color photos. Once you acquire it, you’ll realize the color images are worth the price.

In parting, here are words that will stay with me, and I hope to convey to YOU:

Always by Your Side
I see you dry your tears: how sad you seem to be./
Please know that I am here, but I'm also feeling free./

Let these beautiful words plant a healing seed in you, too.

I give Lauren Scott’s King Copper: Our dog's life in poetry an honest 5-star rating and a warm hug for putting out such a book that brings forth light into the world.
Profile Image for Balroop Singh.
Author 14 books82 followers
August 22, 2025
‘King Copper: Our Dog’s Life in Poetry’ is a heartwarming tribute to a pet whose love shines through Scott’s poems. This handsome guy looks stunning in the pictures that the poet has shared. I am not a dog lover, but I can understand how much love and understanding these furry friends hold in their hearts. Copper’s unconditional love has been beautifully expressed in memorable poetry by his mom.

No less than a celebrity, the poet tells us that Copper was a show-stopper, a hugger, and a kisser. His graceful gait, his charming smile, his slobbery kisses, and his dedication to guard his loving family made him an adorable golden boy. The warmth that radiates from his amber eyes reaches your heart if you look at his pictures.

Most of the poems celebrate Scott’s love for Copper, but there are a few that tug at my heart as they bring out the poet’s grief when she hears “a dog barking in the distance or misses the sounds like “nail click on the kitchen floor.”
‘Loss is Loss’ perfectly captures the emotions of those who grieve, a feeling which can only be understood by those who know that mourning seeps into our skin, a constant reminder that our loved one will never return.

However, ‘Rainbow Bridge’ breathes positivity and encourages acceptance, followed by Seasons that inspires to live with “sweet memories,” finding solace in the making a plea to spring to “free the ache,” and I love how Copper Boy responds - “I’m sitting by your side; I never went away.” Yes, dear Copper, you live within us, and thanks to your poet mom, who made you immortal through her poetry.
Profile Image for Pete Springer.
314 reviews17 followers
September 8, 2025
Though I generally don't read much poetry, I knew this book would touch my heart. Having gone through the experience of having to make the loving decision to say goodbye to a loyal and trusting friend is one of the hardest decisions we pet owners eventually face. Even though King Copper, author Lauryn Scott's treasured copper-colored lab, lived for thirteen wonderful years, the pain of not seeing those loving eyes and crawling into his owners' laps one more time is a feeling that can't be forgotten.

I was hooked the moment I read the preface when the author described meeting King Copper in 2012 until that fateful day in 2025 when it was time to say farewell. This just wasn't something Scott had to process, but her husband and two adult children had to work through it as well. I found it very touching that the author called her two kids to explain the situation so that they could also have time to process the most difficult of decisions.

Though most of the collection is a series of short poems that explains Scott's love for the beloved family pet, I wasn't expecting to read poetry through King Copper's voice. That choice demonstrated the mutual love between human and dog. I suspect that writing this series of poems and essays was therapeutic for the author. Several wonderful photos showing the lab with the rest of his family were also very moving. I hope when the time is right that Scott and her family decide to get another dog. King Copper would understand because he loved his people.
Profile Image for Maggie Watson.
Author 8 books6 followers
August 6, 2025
Anyone who has ever owned a pet knows
how heartbreaking it is when we lose them.
As Lauren so correctly says, "loss is loss, hearts still break,
tears fall until there are no more stages of grief".
I smiled and I cried while reading this beautiful collection of poetry
written in tribute to Lauren's Labrador, Copper.
I loved all the poems, particularly the ones signed 'Love Copper' and 'Your Copper Boy.'
Lauren also included many lovely photographs of this handsome boy, on his own, and with members of her family.
I felt the pain of her grief in "Tail Wag" as she writes, "I walk through the door, no senior pup trots up to me, greeting with a tail wag, oh, my aching heart".
And in the section of the book titled "Still too Soon", Lauren tells of her last moments spent with Copper and then the agonising decision made after taking him to Pet Emergency.
The depth of love for Copper is apparent throughout this collection.
To quote Lauren again, "unconditional love, what could be better?".
I believe that is why we feel their loss so much, because that kind of love is irreplaceable.
I admire Lauren for having the strength to put together this collection while still grieving (Copper only passed in March).
Lauren had the joy of owning this beautiful dog for thirteen years, and I am sure he is still wagging his tail on Rainbow Bridge, with so much love for his owner.
Thank you, Lauren, for sharing Copper with the world.
Profile Image for Jan Sikes.
Author 31 books257 followers
August 10, 2025
I shed more than a tear or two as I read this beautiful tribute to King Copper, a chocolate lab that gave so much love and joy to the author's family. The poetry is heartfelt and poignant. Some of the poems speak of the happy times and some of the deep sadness at Copper's passing. He came to their home in March with youthful spirit and left in March gaining angel wings with 13 years in between.
This is a touching story of unconditional love. Here is an example of poems that touched me deeply.
Young Lab
There once was a friendly, young lab
With energy delightfully fab
He loved belly rubs
Hated baths in the tub
He gave big, toothy smiles, never sad!

My Shadow
Feeling empty in my bones
walking from to room,
where is my shadow?

Those are just two very short examples of the deep heartfelt poetry in this book. The photos of the deeply cherished Copper and his family are an added bonus. If you've ever experienced the pain of loss and struggled to find a way to carry on, I recommend this short read to help you process. It touches on the reality of grieving and how hard it can be to keep putting one foot in front of the other. Yet, we do, as the author shows us.
Profile Image for Abbie Taylor.
Author 10 books11 followers
September 18, 2025
I’ve always loved dogs. When I was growing up, my family had a few. But after being my late husband’s caregiver for six years, I’m not ready to care for another living thing. Instead, I enjoy living vicariously through other people who have dogs. This book helped me do just that.

I like how some poems are from the author’s point of view and others are from the dog’s. Copper reminded me of the dogs in our family, and I, along with Lauren and her family, loved his cuddles and kisses. The account of Copper’s arrival at the beginning, the explanation of how the dog left this world later on, and the photos scattered throughout the book add a nice touch. If you love dogs, I invite you to live vicariously through Lauren Scott and enjoy a tail-wagging tribute to a beloved family canine.
Profile Image for Dawn Pisturino.
Author 7 books22 followers
August 14, 2025
This book made me cry, and I’m not ashamed to admit it. As I read these endearing poems, written in tribute to a beloved dog, I couldn’t help but remember my special pets that have crossed over the Rainbow Bridge.
Copper was a fortunate dog. Adopted into a warm and loving home, he gave unconditional love and protection in return. He will always hold a special place in his family’s heart. The book includes numerous personal photos that reflect this love.
This collection of poetry is sure to touch your heart, as it touched mine. I give it five stars.
Profile Image for Darlene Foster.
Author 19 books220 followers
August 18, 2025
This is a book of poems lovingly written in memory of a much loved pet. The poems are wonderful, and filled with deep emotion. I found myself reaching for a tissue many times. Anyone who loves dogs will relate to this book. I enjoyed the accompanying photos as well. Favourite poems are, Casanets, about walking with your dog, Our Furry Friend, and Young Lab. Some cute limericks are also included. My wish is that everyone be blessed with a dog like Copper in their lives.
Profile Image for Teri Drobnick.
Author 1 book7 followers
August 29, 2025


For anyone who has loved and lost a pet, Scott's sweet poems of her precious lab, Copper, will touch your heart.
Profile Image for Marsha Ingrao.
Author 6 books15 followers
October 3, 2025
"Grief has no timeline." p. 53 King Copper: Our dog's life in poetry

Anyone who has lost a dog knows that feeling. Dog lovers need this book.

When our little Kalev, AKA Puppy Girl, started having grand mal seizures after a dental procedure, the emergency vet told us it was either time to release her, or realize that she would continue to have them even with two daily shots in her nose, and she would come to a point where she didn't know us. We had to make that terrible decision.

I wish I'd had this book three years ago when that happened.

After a gentle conversation with the emergency vet, the compassionate thing to do would be to make that heart-wrenching decision so that his suffering wouldn't linger, ... A decision that tugged on my heart as if someone was literally trying to yank it out of my chest.
p. 20 King Copper: Our dog's life in poetry

This could have been your experience and mine. Lauren's description mirrors my feelings at the time so much that it is hard to read without feeling a tug on your heart. Yet she did what I didn't. She memorialized him with words that we can visualize in a heartbeat.

A home without Copper
A home without him folded into adorable sleeping positions.
A home without him dancing for a treat.
A home without him finding the sunny spot to lay down in.
A home without his cuddles, snuggles, and slobbery kisses.
A home without his unditional love.
A home without Copper.
p. 21 King Copper: Our dog's life in poetry

Don't those words seem like they come right out of YOUR soul?

Lauren also included many color pictures of Copper Boy enjoying fun times with his family.

Here is a comforting poem from Copper Boy sent to comfort dog lovers around the world.

Always by Your Side

I see you dry your tears: how sad you seem to be.
Please know that I am here, but I'm also feeling free.

No more groaning in the night or whining in the day.
No causing you fright from being in pain.

I never went away; I'm sitting by your side.
Your sky won't stay gray; it will turn blue and bright.

I'm sitting by your side; I never went away.
My love for you runs far and wide; I'll never go astray.

Copper Boy p. 40
King Copper: Our dog's life in poetry

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and give it five glowing stars, some for Copper Boy and some for the gumption it took Lauren to write about him.
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