My sweet baby, Max
by Sarah Beth
(Pittsburgh, PA)
Writing this as tears stream down my face after the loss of my sweet baby, Max.
Just a few days ago Mr. Max was bouncing around, begging for treats, and wagging his little nub of a tail as happy and healthy as could be. I awoke Thursday morning to find that he had been throwing up and obviously wasn't feeling well. Unfortunately, this morning, I had to say goodbye to the greatest friend I've ever known.
My dad surprised my family with 3 year old "Sir Yoohoo Maximillion" when I was just in 4th grade. We dubbed him Max and he easily stole our hearts with his quirky expressions, little tail that wagged about 100 mph, and voice. He loved to talk to us. If you have a schnauzer, you might be familiar with the "a woo-woo-woo" bark. I loved the way his ears would raise and his head would turn when I talked to him... the way he stuck his butt in the air whenever I was getting ready to throw his toy... the "you've got to be kidding me" look he gave me when I told him it was bath time... the way he would take up half of my bed when he had his own. Max grew up with me. He was my wrestle-buddy, my walking-partner, and my plate-cleaner.
Just a year and a half ago, my father passed away. Max was there to mend mine and my mothers hearts. He would scootch as close as he could and lay his head on our laps when we were sad. He helped me get through the most horrible time of my life. As the rest of my friends and family continued on with their lives, Max was there with us when ours seemed to be shattered. He was always there to listen, hold, and cry into. He was my best friend.
Max lived a long life. He was 16 years young - despite his poor vision and arthritis, he always acted like a puppy. We grew up together for the past 13 years. He was the greatest dog I have ever known. So much spunk and personality, and the biggest heart out of any animal or human I've ever met. My heart is broken into a thousand pieces and I don't know how I'm going to start my days without letting him outside and sharing my breakfast with him. Right now it doesn't feel like this pain will ever go away, but I am so thankful to have grown up next to my best friend.
Your collar is hanging around my rear view mirror, bubba. Now you can go on every car ride with me without getting all that slobber all over my windows. I love you with all of my heart, Max. Rest in peace.
