My friend and constant companion of 15 1/2 human years passed on today following a long and valient battle with artheritis in his hind quarters.
Born in Wichita, Kansas in August 1998, Max was a well traveled K9 that loved long walks and car rides. At 10 months old Max embarked on his first road trip riding with Derek and I riding in the cab of a Ryder truck through Kansas, Colorado, Utah, Nevada to his new home in California.
Max lived in San Francisco from June 1999 until June 2005 when he relocated with Kelly and I to Ponce Inlet, Florida. During his time in Florida
Max traveled to Ft. Lauderdale for a ride on a boat while Kelly and I went SCUBA diving. Later Max journeyed through Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina to Virginia to support Kelly at a national dance competition. The number of trips that Max made between Ponce Inlet and Orlando is just too many to be counted.In March 2010 Nikki joined Max as a member of the family with the idea that they would become best buddies. Unfortunately, they didn't become best buddies and they did manage to build a peaceful co-coexistence. In June 2010 Max set off on his journey across the southern US traveling with Nikki in the back of a Nissan Pathfinder all the way from Ponce Inlet, Fl through southern Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and finally back to the Bay Area in California. Through it all, Max was just your typical, lovable Lab.
Above all, Max is the consummate example of "man's best friend". No matter what my troubles were, he always listened. No matter what his troubles were, he seldom complained. He was fiercely loyal to me and suffered separation anxiety when I would leave him. He was gentle with all other living creatures though sometimes he was clumsy and a bit "socially awkward"
Max, I miss you already and can only take comfort in that you didn't suffer in pain for any longer than necessary. You put up a great fight and showed real determination. I have learned how to be a better human because of what you have taught me.
Rest in Peace, my friend.
