Max was not just our dog—he was the heart of our family. I brought him home as a surprise for my kids when they were 8 and 10 years old, and he quickly became everyone’s best friend. He had a knack for sensing when someone needed extra love, curling up next to us during tough days. Max loved camping trips, running around the lake with the kids, and even helping my husband with yard work (by running through the leaves, of course). His final years were spent mostly indoors, but the kids still loved spoiling him with treats and belly rubs. When he passed, we held a small ceremony in the backyard where we buried his favorite toy. Max taught us about unconditional love, and we still talk about him like he’s here with us.
