Happy Birthday, Maximus

BabyMax

Four years ago this weekend, somewhere in Texas, a black and white puppy squirmed into a cold, scary world. Not long after that, he found himself in a rural Texas kill-shelter.

When we met him nine weeks later, in February, 2009, we weren’t looking for a third dog, and we certainly weren’t looking for a puppy, but something about this black and white boy, all alone in the world, curled itself around our hearts. A week later, he was sleeping in a crate in our bedroom by night, and leading our first foster-dog, a heeler named Blue, around our house by holding the hand-loop of a leash in his mouth.

Max in the Park

At ten weeks old, he was already a problem-solving dog.

A week after that, Blue found his forever home, and our Zorro-dog died. Max knew something was ‘different,’ but he wasn’t yet terribly affectionate, more inclined to gnaw on our fingers or chew on our necks than give kisses.

Within five months Max had outgrown his first crate, and was rapidly expanding in all directions, to fill his second. At one point, I went to Mexico, leaving behind a puppy, and coming home to a DOG.

Over time, as Max grew into his current 70-pound (plus or minus) frame, he also became the sweetest, most affectionate dog ever. Sure, we’re still trying to curb his counter-surfing habits, and he’s picked up our nocturnal habits to the point where he won’t eat before ten in the morning, but otherwise, he’s a great dog.

CuddlyMax

And now…now he’s FOUR.

Happy birthday, Maximus. You came with that name, and we let you keep it, but you took our hearts in exchange.

Holidailies 2012

4 thoughts on “Happy Birthday, Maximus

  1. …and I remember you sending a photo, saying “look at this puppy — and tell me we don’t need another dog!” My recollection is that I said “Awwww……maybe you do!” or something to that effect!

  2. Sometimes it is just meant to be, I think. You said to yourself you didn’t want a puppy, but he was your dog from the start. Many long, happy years to him (and you)!

  3. Happy Birthday to Max. My favorite guy! I am glad you have grown out of that over-the-top love affair you had for my appendages and instead are content to share a stick with me from time to time. I will gnaw on one in your honor from Baton Rouge.

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