Bandy's Schmata

Some babies have their blankies,
Bandy's got his schmata.
It's both his source of comfort
And instant love, a lotta.

It used to be my sweatshirt
But Bandy personalized it
By chewing, ripping, gnawing--
Just see how he has prized it.

He values it above
All his varied toys--
Just try to take it from him
And lo! a growling noise.
He's three and a half years old
And may someday outgrow it
But whatever the schmata's fate
You can bet I'll never throw it.

I'll either frame the thing
Ragged though it is
Or keep it for his pups
Who'll love that it was his.