The Contest

I try to give him sleep
free of the cough
that comes from his congestive heart.
Winter chill no help.

I have bought him a sweater for nights,
he stays so cold,
padded coat  
for the walks he still loves.

He unusually long at his favorite sniffs,
otherwise, seems normal
and is eating well.

Still, I know the end is coming.
He sleeps just now on the couch.

He opens an eye occasionally,
to see I'm there.
I listen to see if he's breathing.

It's our latest game,
this checking up on each other
to see who'll win.