The Adventures of Maxdog in South Africa

MAXDOG, The Book: AVAILABLE NOW!!!

2011-12-11T07:17:00.001+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!

MAXDOG has been published in South Africa!!!

“MAXDOG”

Author: Caryl Moll

Published by: Porcupine Press

ISBN 978-0-9869979-4-5

Autographed copies can be ordered directly from me:

carylmoll@yahoo.com

Available through all major bookstores as well as online.

Price: R160

MAXDOG is the story of a Golden Retriever who becomes a rock of emotional support for his owner after she faces a series of devastating life events that plunge her into deep depression. Years later, the tables are turned and roles are reversed when Max is diagnosed with a cancer that will soon take his life.

In her journey to personal healing, Max's owner rediscovers her love of writing and begins an inspirational internet blog sharing Max's final months with her readers. MAXDOG of South Africa, the blog, captures a world-wide audience, giving Max's owner new purpose and direction in her life.

MAXDOG is filled with laughter, tears and bittersweet moments that will pull the reader into its pages. This heart-warming tale is testimony to the enduring power of the human spirit, and the unconditional love shared between a Golden Retriever and its owner.

For more information about the book, please click:

HERE

Please come and visit my new, up-to-date blog:

LIVING LIFE TO THE MAX

Sending lotsaluv,

A JOURNEY UNHINDERED

2011-07-24T19:55:00.006+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!

A JOURNEY UNHINDERED
By Caryl Moll

I stood at the edge of the cliff-face that day and looked across the vast landscape of the South African Lowveld. In the distance, the open plains of the Kruger National Park stretched out into oblivion. This was my home, I thought – the place where my heart was always rejuvenated. I sighed in awe.
How wonderful it was to finally be there – at God’s window. The name had never been lost on me. I could almost touch the heavens. In the blessed moment, I felt encouraged to ponder the road ahead. Like the distant plains, the voice of my solitary journey beckoned.

“Write! Write! Write! There’s a story to be told. Tell it well! Make it happen! Don’t, even for one second, doubt that it is your destiny. MAXDOG will not die.”

As I stood at the edge of the cliff, I felt his presence – that gentle golden spirit which, in the past weeks, had continued to reach down and comfort me. He too was affirming my resolve.

“Our journey was unique, Maxmom,” he seemed to say. “One of a kind. Yet, in it, our story echoes those of others who do not speak. My bond with you is shared by many dogs before me. Their owners ache to know that their own journeys, with their beloved companions,are affirmed. Be strong, Maxmom! I am with you.”

Eventually I hiked back down the forest paths to the valley below. I knew that there was no longer time to waiver. I had to write MAXDOG’s book – the story of the small puppy, whose presence I’d resisted for so long. He was a dog who would eventually transform my life and, yes, he’d remain with me forever.

And so the journey began.

“As I look to the sunrise,
I now know,
That you are there…
In its glorious glow.”

'THE ROAD TO PUBLISHING'

2011-07-15T09:06:00.001+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!MAXMOM here...

('Maxdog' by Kathleen Coy)

Hello there to all my friends around the world, Maxdog's friends, readers and supporters of this blog.

I began writing Max's book in February 2010. It was around the time of the diagnosis of his liver tumour - and during his last 107 'Days of Grace'. I can say, with all honesty, that I was emotionally compelled to write his story. I have been focussed on this task, since then, with unwavering determination. It has been a difficult and painful journey, but certainly a worthwhile one. Maxdog continues to impact on my life - even from beyond the grave.I remember one particular day - sometime in March 2010. Max was lying at my feet. I knew he was dying but he'd already exceeded the two week life expectancy which had been given to him.

As I looked down at this beautiful dog, an overwhelming feeling of love engulfed me. There was no way I could allow him to die and for his story fade into obscurity. Max had done some amazing things in his life - not least of which was his assistance in my recovery from deep depression. He had also touched hearts world-wide. I simply had to write his story! So I got up from my seat and went to my kitchen. In a corner of my grocery cupboard, I retrieved a candle. I lit it and placed it on the coffee table in our lounge. It was a somewhat poignant moment as I made a promise - to Max and myself - that the light of the candle would not go out, until I'd finished writing the book.  Well, it took many candles! In September 2010, 4 months after Max's death, I completed the first draft of MAXDOG.Writing this book has been an amazing journey. Not only has it provided catharcism for both me and my family, but it has allowed us to reach closure on a very difficult part of our lives.With my family's permission, I share my very personal account of my life with MAXDOG in this book. A short life - only 10 years.
I believe that MAXDOG does honest and true justice to my beloved Max. It also gives credit to my family and my amazing blogging friends around the world who have supported me along this journey.v I have been blessed so many times, with the uncanny moments, when exactly the right people have been put into my path. I have no doubt that these people have arrived, by the hand of God, to assist me in what has been at times a very difficult journey.
A basic Internet search will reveal that there are many routes to publishing, which include either mainstream publishing or Self-publishing. I have looked into both at length and have chosen to self-publish. My sincere hope in this venture has been two-fold: * I wish to give voice to the powerful bonds which develop between companion animals and their owners * By telling my personal story, I hope to assist in eradicating the dangerous taboo's, judgement, preconceived ideas and social isolation, which is directed at people who suffer from depression and anxiety. We need to speak about these conditions - openly and honestly - and share our journeys with the world. Only in this way, will we course a path to averting the social stigma attached to anxiety and depression. It is a human condition which affects most people at least once in their lives!  Finally, let me say that every word, every sentence, every paragraph, every chapter and indeed the entire book, is backed by my personal prayer:

"Wherever Maxdog's story goes, let it do good!"

   I invite you to visit us on MAXDOG's
FACEBOOK FAN PAGE
and track this journey.

Thank you to all my friends for supporting, following and encouraging me: - through your emails, on my new blog, on Facebook and in private messages and converations. I feel extremely privileged to have met so many incredible people. Enjoy my book!
Sending lotsaluv to you all

MAXMOM IN SOUTH AFRICA

12 MARCH 2011: MAXDOG REMEMBERED...

2011-03-14T11:20:00.000+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!

Dear Max, my beautiful boy!

It was your birthday on Saturday:

12 March 2011.

You would have been 11 years old.

I will always remember you, Max -

- the incredible dog, who touched my life so deeply!

From the day you arrived, through your years as a growing pup.

In everything you did, I could only feel pride:
Your training, your activities, your shows...

Your special outings...

The way you tempered me by posing for blogposts,

Your fun and exuberance when I asked you to retrieve...

Your adoring expressions...

Your incredible tricks...

Your patience when we made fun of you...

The special moments we shared...

You were truly an amazing dog!

Especially in the way you fought your illness!

And the way you taught us to

LIVE LIFE TO THE MAX!

Thank you, my dog, for granting me the privilege of witnessing your life.

MAXDOG,

Never forgotten, Always remembered!

With lotsaluv from your

MAXMOM.

MY MAX

2010-05-29T09:24:00.000+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!"MAX"(A Poem)

An overwhelming Love I feel,
For this manificent creature at my heel.

Golden coat, tail held free,
Dark, beautiful eyes, all focused on me.

The excitement of his walk, he can hardly contain:
Pawing every step, his lead under strain.

"Free", I say: In a flash he bounds
Gurgling with pleasure, as he makes his rounds.

A sniff here, a 'point' there
A dart to the stream, a backward stare.

His coat is alight with silvery streaks
His stance so expressive, it almost speaks.

In contrast, he hurtles to the darkest of ponds:
Sticky slush and rotting fronds.

And then, he sits in it and stares in glee,
Knowing full well, the fury in me.

A final dip in that filthy lake,
Onto the bank and begins his "shake".

I shudder to think of the bath that must follow
To rid him of the gunge his fur had to swallow.

He stares at me as if nothing was done,
Now it's bathtime, for the smell is not fun.

Apologetically, reluctantly he climbs in the bath
He's so unhappy, I just have to laugh.

I bribe him with treats as I shampoo up his fur
and he answers my pleas with a soapy slur.

Finally rinsed out, he's as good as new,
Running trenches in my passage - the bath was the cue.

As hunger strikes, he's at my side,
Innocence again; nothing to hide.

I fill his bowl as he patiently watches,
The drool from his jowls, just falling in blotches.

The meal is his best, it seems to be
His very existence as he trusts in me.

As the night falls, so does he - at my feet

Our two spirits tied - always to meet.

He'd die for me, and I for him,
His short life; a concept too grim.

My companion, my friend, nothing he lacks!
My beautiful dog................

THAT'S MY MAX!!
(Caryl Moll: 2001)

I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation and thanks to all my friends, across the globe, for your unfailing support and love over this past incredible journey of 18 months of blogging.
In the past 6 months of Maxdog's illness, your love and compassion has strengthened me beyond measure! Your comments, emails, advice, prayers, tributes and messages of support for Maxdog, me, my family and my other furry companions have been an enormous blessing and have helped fortify me as I have travelled this path. It is a chapter now closed, but also new beginning. Our memories will last forever, those moments we will cherish. But It's now time to shape new ones.

This blog is a tribute to both Maxdog and his beautiful cyber-friends.
If you stay a while and explore you will find their stories in the blogposts over the past 18 months. These tell a tale of phenomenal love and strength and might serve to uplift you in your own journey with your companions. The story of Max's full life, including those 8 years prior to blogging is currently being shaped by me, his sad but strengthened 'Maxmom', in a book which I am working on. I am so much richer for having known him and for having come to know my blogging friends and their powerful support group.

Thank you for your love and for simply being YOU!
I will be moving my activities to my new blog:
"LIVING LIFE TO THE MAX"

Please come and join us there...we remain
MAXDOG'S FAMILY

MAX: A COLLECTION OF DIFFERENT FACES

2010-05-25T13:11:00.004+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!

"Mom and Me": 7th February 2010

"The hands of the world are on me": November 2009...

Max and Tammy at Zoo Lake Charity walk 2009

"Max lost in Stuffie land"

Mom, Dogs and exchange students 2005

Max rescues Toffee.

Max jumps for Mom's 50th birthday: May 2009

The Maxpack

Life in Sunny South Africa

A tempting "Braai" (Barbeque)

"I blew a bubble for Honey's Slobber contest" 2009

Max's family will now be blogging from

LIVING LIFE TO THE MAX!!!

Please visit us there for updates.

With love

HEART-DOG'S-CROSSING

2010-05-24T12:24:00.002+02:00

"RUFFITWOOD DANCING SPRING"

Affectionately known as..

MAX

12 March 2000 - 24 May 2010

HEART-DOG’S-CROSSING by Caryl Moll.

Ship passes in the night

touching dreams. “Behold the Light!”

Stops only a little while

to take aboard a Golden smile.

Sails waft in gentle breeze

waits the dog to be at ease.

Boards the ship, the sun descending,

to greater mission perhaps pending.

Sniffing salty air of preservation,

drops to deck to take his station.

Captain smiles, “Dog’s day is done!"

"But come, my boy, to another one!”

I feel the weight of a leaded heart

to say farewell, for now we part.

Seagulls cry, “Oh! What a glow!

His brilliant light, don’t we know!”

In the distance, ears alert,

his eye focussed, away from hurt

to a bridge, to be sailed across,

a rainbow to behold, NOT a loss!

Barks say “Enter!” Up he stands.

Sounds of welcome from distant lands.

The sea sends back his gentle soul

to touch my heart, to make me whole.

---xXx---

I said goodbye to my dearest companion at 10.25 this morning.

"Fly free my darling Max!"

With love

MAXMOM IN SOUTH AFRICA

OUR 106th GIFTED DAY...

2010-05-23T18:41:00.000+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!MAXMOM here...

As the sun sets this evening I realise that another 24 hours have gone past. What’s in a day? Each day is a new beginning. Each day presents the opportunity of living. Perhaps the difficulties are there so that I am able to appreciate all the beauty, all the love and all the immense bounty of this life. What would life be without hardship? It simply wouldn’t be life! Thank you so much to you all for your messages of support, strength, caring, compassion and upliftment. Both the “Boss” and I read your words and we are each able to glean immense strength and guidance from your heartfelt comments. It’s ironic that there is always at least one message that will touch us to the core – the place where we most need it. Thank you, dear friends! Miss R has gone back to university and the house is still again. (Some photos during her departure...) Maxdog has had a comfortable day. Our collective decision, for the moment, is to let him be and watch him carefully. He looks pretty peaceful and comfortable despite his general reluctance of food. At lunch time he did take a few Vienna sausages from me, only to bring them up a little later. The diarrhea however seems to have eased. This is no surprise because there hasn’t been much in his stomach. This evening however, (very surprisingly) he has eaten a bowl of chicken mince. We are holding thumbs that this will stay down. Where he’s getting his strength from generally, I have no idea! When he’s not been taken out of the property for one of his rejuvenating short walks, he is lying somewhere close beside me. He loves being outside our perimeter and still scouts for smells and news. When he’s inside our boundaries however, he sleeps silently, deeply and peacefully. Only the tell tale rise and fall of the fur on his side suggests that he’s still alive. His breathing is unlaboured, very shallow but very comfortable and he doesn’t seem to be in any pain whatsoever!
He does have regular moments of liveliness during the day where he’s taken to carrying that horrible raw-hide bone around. On a lighthearted note:...KING TOFFEEwas contemplating his own gorgeousness this morning. I think it was during this time that he disbanded his reverie and decided to dig up Maxdog's raw-hide bone... He dug it up this morning where Max had buried it on Friday. Well it wasn’t in the possession of ‘THE KING’ for long! MAXDOG immediately emerged from his dreams and retrieved it and he has carried it with him all day.He doesn’t chew it but just carries it aroundI don’t have much more to tell you. These next few days are going to be tough. Sending lotsaluv to all of you...my amazing, special and wonderful cyber friends! MAXMOM IN SOUTH AFRICA

THE WINDMILL: DAY 105

2010-05-22T18:41:00.000+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!MAXMOM here...

The Windmill

If the wind doesn’t blow, when does the caretaker of the windmill decide to destroy the windmill? Indeed, is it the caretaker’s role to decide when to destroy the windmill? Surely it is the villagers’ decision (as a whole) to remove the windmill, considering that the windmill affects the whole community?

Max hasn’t eaten a substantial meal for a while now. To me, he looks gaunt and thin and he has diarrhea. Despite his beautiful, bountiful fur, his skeleton is so prominent when I rub my hands across his back and his sides. I know that the photographs on my blogposts are wonderful and to a large extent evade reality. I choose the best photos that I have – out of the hundreds taken daily - because I am weary of alarming my readers. But the fact is that Maxdog is deteriorating on a daily basis and there’s nothing I can do to stop this heartbreaking process.

This morning, soon after waking, I felt strongly that it was time to let Max go. As a family, we have discussed this at length over the past agonizing months and the general feeling has been that I will be the one to make the call. Despite this, I have been acutely aware that Max is a ‘family dog’, but since he has been my responsibility over the past 10 years, I finally made the decision…it was time...but...

Maxdog is really my husband’s dog. His admission into our family, 10 years ago, was a result of a whole year’s painstaking convincing, on his behalf , towards changing my mind about getting a big dog in our family . I was the reluctant one and systematically fought this for over the year. In the end, I conceded and resolved rather to admit this dog into our household but also committed myself to turn him into the best dog he could be – as a gift to my husband. My resticence however dissolved the day Maxdog arrived. I was totally and wholeheartedly bowled over once the pup arrived on my doorstep.

I am currently writing up the story of the early life of Maxdog. It is a story beyond this blog. I’m telling you this only so that you will understand the fact that Maxdog has a really special relationship with each member of my family both individually and collectively. As his primary caregiver, I have always been very understanding of Maxdogs various relationships and his ability to reach beyond me.

But let’s get back to this morning and my strong feeling that it was time to let Maxdog go. I took a moment to discuss this with my hubby. He seemed comfortable with the decision. I phoned the Vet and set up the appointment to take my boy in at 11.30am. I then went into ‘automatic’ mode (something I do when there are difficult things to face) and went about my routine –tidying up profusely and finding things in the house to do just so that I wouldn’t have to think about the inevitable.

Maxdog simply slept quietly on his various beds throughout the house. So long as he’s near me, he’s comfortable.

It wasn’t long after this when I realized that my hubby was struggling with the whole thing. Indeed he was a broken man. We sat down together and reopened the discussion. He feels that it’s not time yet for Maxdog.

I have always believed in the value of collective decision-making because it often smoothes over subjectivity. Our home too has always been focused on love, consideration and respect for one another – both human and animal alike.

The bottom line…

Max is still with us. He’s comfortably sleeping at my feet. I feel absolutely exhausted – like I have gone under a hangman’s noose but haven’t died.

I realize that I am sharing aspects of this process that are extremely personal but I also feel strongly that these things need to be shared. Euthanasia of a beloved companion is not always the sole decision of one person. In most cases animals form part of a larger family. The human animal bond is a complex one – it reaches into dimensions that we don’t understand fully. I am hoping that in the long run me sharing this with the world will serve to help others and provide strength to them in their times of extreme heartbreak.

When the windmill doesn’t blow…do we remove it?

The irony of all this…..tomorrow is my birthday.

Sending lotsaluv to you all.

MAXMOM IN SOUTH AFRICA

MAX IS A MYSTERY

2010-05-21T15:39:00.000+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!MAXMOM here...

Hello there to all our friends across this amazing world of ours! I hope you are all having a happy day and getting ready for the weekend. Miss R is home for the weekend and KING TOFFEE is besides himself with glee. As far as he is concerned, you can't have too many subjects.

Thank you so much for your continued support regarding Max's illness. It means so much to me to have such a wonderful group of cyber friends who so generously offer their encouragement and upliftment during these trying times. Today is Max's 104th Day of Grace.

When I look at that number I must admit that I am incredibly grateful for this borrowed time, but I also feel saddened by the fact that there are so many fur-friends in the world who have been given less 'notice', about the inevitable rainbow crossing of their companions. For some of my friends, the loss of their canine companion has come along suddenly and without notice whilst Maxdog, on the other hand, has enjoyed such Amazing Grace. The answer to 'WHY?" this is, is unfathomable! But in all this, I know that there must be a bigger plan...that my role at the moment is to simply tell it like it is. Hopefully others will find strength in the tale of our own journey, as they too confront the realities of the illnesses of the special animals (and humans) in their lives. So here is a MAXDOG UPDATE:

It is indeed a rollercoaster. Some days he is not well and other days he displays the energy of a dog who is embracing all that life has to offer. There have been moments during the past three months where I have wondered, "Is this it? Should I put him to sleep now?", only to find that he springs back to life in the next half hour. It is then that I wonder, "How could I have considered to put him to sleep now?". This journey is so unsettling. Like most things in life his condition is unpredictable and I am having to learn how to love in patience and trust. This morning was another of those times when I thought, "Perhaps it's time!?".

He is lethargic, he doesn't want to eat and he prefers to simply drop to the floor and snooze. I sat for a long while with him on his bed in the bedroom praying for direction as he lay comfortably and silently sleeping by my side. The contrast came again - not 10 minutes later - when I had to duck out the room. When I came back, he was gone.I found him in the garden.

He'd dug up one of his old hide bones and was carrying it around. He brought it inside the house, with his pack following him, to the bedroom.

Then he went outside again.

There he was focussed on circumnavigating the pool and must have gone around it at least three times.

I realised that perhaps I was intruding on his private space. (Max doesn't often ask for private space) So I returned into the house and peeped out through the bedroom window.

Yes, he buried it again - like he does with most of his food nowadays. He chose a spot behind some plants and shovelled the sand on top of his buried treasure with his nose. It was a personal and private time for him. Obviously he was filthy after his efforts. I left him outside for a while.

I find his behaviour extraordinary. What does it mean? Is this instinctive behaviour to buryALL your food when you can no longer stomach it? (At the moment he is burying everything I give him- his liver cakes and anything he takes from me. Either that or he'll keep it inside his mouth and spit it out later) Anyway, thank you for being by my side as I travel this journey. Thank you for your encouragement and uplifting thoughts. I am sorry that I don't have all the answers. Max remains a mystery!...and at my feet.

Sending lotsaluv to you all and good wishes for a happy weekend.MAXMOM IN SOUTH AFRICA

DAY 103

2010-05-20T15:51:00.000+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!MAXMOM here...

Another beautiful winter’s sunrise!

It's been a glorious sunny day here in Johannesburg, South Africa

and the 'Max' temperature has been 20 degrees centigrade.

Our evenings are spent together comfortably watching television,

whilst a gas heater pumps its warmth into the high ceiling of our sitting room.

The dogs are usually sprawled out all over the carpet in a totally relaxed state.

Later at night we settle into comfortable beds donned with the necessary feather duvets to ward off the chill.

The dogs have their own bed in the corner of our bedroom...

It’s certainly not soup weather yet!

– that is reserved for the months of June and July – but there’s a definite chill in the evening air.

During the day we dress in layers and gradually strip off as the sun rises and warms the day.

Thanks to MAXDOG...

our pool is still in use but we have put our own swimming costumes in the back of the cupboards.

Every time I leave the premises, Max uses the opportunity to have a dip. There must be a degree of separation anxiety with my departure - what other reason would a dog have to climb into a really COLD pool? Once I’m home however he’s back at my feet like a leech and follows me around as I go about my homely tasks

In this kind of weather, the air becomes dry and soaks up any lurking moisture.

Our pool's water level drops significantly at this time of the year and this is the first evidence of generally dry conditions. Evaporation plays a large role in our increased water bill at month end and we have to fill up the pool on a weekly basis so that the water level doesn’t drop below the mosaics.

The redbilled woodhoepoes have returned to our garden to taunt our TAMMY-GIRL with their cackling laughter. It's quite a site to see. They are cheeky birds with very little fear of canines. They hang into the bark of trees, not far from ground level and announce their presence in the neighbourhood...

Usually TAMMY-GIRL is outside on the patio soaking up the sun...

...but this quickly changes when the birds are around.

She takes up a belligerent expression as she patrols the garden in a vain attempt to bark them off the premises.

KING TOFFEE follows suite and attempts a TAMMY-GIRL impersonation...

MAXDOG watches their antics from the comfort of the patio door.

Yes, winter is definitely here!

---xXx---

Some surprises arrived in the post yesterday evening.

There was a cheerful postcard from RILEY’s mom (all the way in New Zealand)....

(sorry about the 'blur'...I just don't seem to get these kinds of photos right!)

...and I also received a wonderful little gift book from

Kim at GOLDEN PINES....

“FOR EVERY DOG AN ANGEL” by Christine Davis

Thank you so much to my friends for their thoughtfulness.

It is greatly appreciated!

Sending all our fur-friends lotsaluv with the wish for a happy day.

Day 102

2010-05-19T11:24:00.000+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!MAXMOM here...

Another new day...and this one is a ‘hold my breath’ day!

After the wonderful two days over the weekend with fabulous walks, today offers unsettling moments.

Maxdog

is very much off his food. It really is a mission to get him to eat.

Occasionally I am able to sneak a biscuit or some egg in, but generally he scoffs at the food on offer preferring to sleep away the day.

He has now earned another nick-name...”Thumper” because if you call him or if he is aware that you are looking at him, he thumps his tail hard on the floor in acknowledgement.

As we have come to learn, the walks tell all and so I took him and Tammy out for a jaunt in the cul-de-sac.

Yep, all is fine..!!!

....he sprinted away to the green belt, marked his territory and scoured the perimeter for those soft strands of green grass.

It’s simply another God-granted day with my ailing dog.

The 102nd Day of Grace!

Maxdog seems to be saying:

“I just need to rest beside you”.

And this I will gladly grant.

A WALK IN THE PARK

2010-05-18T10:22:00.001+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!

Sometimes I think the Vets have made a mistake with Max’s diagnosis.

After 100 days I think it is obvious that the tumour hasn’t been as aggressive as they have suggested? Maybe Max is merely adjusting to living with it? All these questions continue to play in my mind.

(But what do I know???)

Yesterday was another beautiful and brilliant day!

The test of Max’s condition, I think, is always with his walk.

Good walk = he’s okay!

The “Boss” arrived home early yesterday afternoon and we decided to take our two Goldens to our local park. I tend not to go to this park on my own because there have been numerous criminal incidents here...

Being on my own would make me more vulnerable to assault, having my cell phone or my house keys taken or even worse (I dread the thought).

Crime in our area is rampant at the moment and having two dogs in tow won’t make any difference at all.

Anyway, the “Boss” and I threw caution to the wind and decided that it’s time to take the dogs to ‘their’ park again!
Life needs to be lived!!!

Max and Tammy absolutely relished the opportunity of simply being somewhere else besides their familiar walking environment.

Max looked totally alive again.

His ears were perked up, his eyes were so alive and his body language suggested that all is well in his world.

We would so have loved to let the two of them romp “Free”, but the little stream is suspect and one doesn’t know what they will find amongst the reeds.

We know them well...they would storm into the reeds, flush out any birds, water rats or other small animals, romp and bark and return a paler shade of black. So they were kept on lead despite their excited attempts to pull away.

Here are some of the photos taken from our Park excursion. I’m sure you’ll agree....A good walk was had by all...

Whatever illness prevails, we will live life to the full!!!

Perhaps this is the answer...

Exercise and Love...?
Who knows...?

Sending lotsaluv to you all...

100 DAYS OF GRACE!!!

2010-05-17T12:07:00.000+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!

Hello there to all our friends across the globe!

Can you believe ...
We have reached this amazing milestone...

MAXDOG'S 100th DAY OF GRACE!!!

---xXx---

If I look back over the past 100 days, I realise what an incredible journey it has been

... and continues to be.

I have leaned to take each day as the blessing it is but I must admit that at times I have forgotten all the amazing events which have made up the past 100 days.

Today is indeed a milestone.

Our Maxdog is a living, walking, breathing miracle!!!

I thought I'd try and summarise some of the highlights and lowlights of these past 100 days

---xXx---

On the 6th February, Maxdog was sent home from the Specialist Veterinary Hospital, together with his distraught Maxmom (me), with the instruction to simply 'love him' and bring him back for euthanasia the minute he starts struggling. There was nothing more that the Vets could do for him as he had been diagnosed with a tumour which occupied 9/10ths of his liver. The general understanding at the time was that Maxdog only had only about 2 weeks left to live!

Little did we all know!....here we sit...100 days later!!!.

Following this announcement, our cyber-community banded together and we received an overwhelming Tsunami of cyber support from around the globe. Emails, comments and various messages of support arrived on our doorstep.

Over the past 100 days we have received over 4000 comments of support! The world has embraced the plight of my beautiful dog and I am so grateful! Prayer groups were set up and we rode those first couple of weeks on a high of goodwill from people we'd never met.

It was a heartwarming moment when the family of our little autistic friend, Murray and his service dog, Clive, in Ireland decided to sponsor the training of a service pup by the name of Stan in Maxdog's honor, so I that I would have a pup to follow when Max had finally departed across the rainbow bridge.

On Valentines Day (14th February 2010), the blogging community gathered their collective creativity and posted a series of "Max Tour Stories" on their personal blogs for our enjoyment. These were embellished with photographs of Maxdog being 'hosted' by their countries, cities and homes. What amazing hospitality came our way as we were able to visit and read every one of those posts. There were 42 bloggers involved in this drive.

Soon after that and unbeknown to me, the blogging community also conspired to commission a beautiful painting of Maxdog by the artist, Kathleen Coy. This was affectionately entitled

The 'Maxterpiece' and the 'Maxproject'.

Friends from around the globe collected funds to pay for both the painting and its framing. It was also a great surprise to discover that there were even more funds left over from their gift, so we added our own bit and gave a donation of R1000 to

The Society for Animals in Distress

here in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Over the past 100 days, we have enjoyed many events in cyberspace including the amazing

Iditarod in Alaska.

Soon after the announcement of Max's illness I became desperate to collect hard copy photographs of Max. I realised I have very few of him and I together.

This prompted the
"Mom and Me photo" drive

as I tried to encourage my readers to get that photo of their pet and themselves as soon as they could.

Our blogposts over this time period have also included snippets of the build up to the

FIFA Soccer World Cup 2010

which is due to take place in a few weeks in our country.

I have written various poems over the time and presented many photographs of Maxdog which I have collected. I've included scenes from South Africa and a written about a range of

"Feel good moments."

Maxdog has also shared stories about his

Golden family,

'Life lessons according to Maxdog'

and also attempted to introduce

King Toffee as a potential substitute Tour Guide.

We have posted videos of Maxdog and Tammy's tricks as well as explained How we taught Maxdog to talk. We were also invited to participate in the BBC Programme examining the power of the internet (you can see the video by following the links in the sidebar)

On a sad note, we have seen the passing of our dear friends...

Hamish (in Scotland) on the 19th February 2010 and

Digby (in France) on the 10th May.

Numerous other fur-friends have sadly passed on and all these friends have left a big pawprint on our hearts.

So there has been a lot of water which has run under own own bridge over the past 100 days but the overwhelming thing has been the incredible cyber-friendships which have come our way. Through your support and encouragement, we keep hopeful and take each day as a blessing it is meant to be.

After 100 days, Max is still comfortable and painfree. Whilst he is very lethargic and picky with his food, he still enjoys his afternoon walks and simply being in the company of a loving family.

We have learnt that we should never discount his need to live life to the full. We have also learned that Vets cannot predict when a dog will die. We have learnt too that each dog is unique and each owner's personal paradigm is also unique...that is is impossible really to give advice to or pass judgment on situations which are not our own. We have learnt that with every closing door a new one opens, that in the journey with a dying dog, nothing is guaranteed or certain. Our most important lesson however has been...

LIVE EACH DAY FOR WHAT IT OFFERS!!!...

Carpe Diem!

So instead of toasting to the next 100 days, let us simply celebrate...

THIS DAY!!!...

Thank you to all our cyber friends for serving to uphold the vision of

MAXDOG's BLOG:

(SHARING, CARING AND UPLIFTING!)

What an incredible journey this is!

With lots of love and thanks

MAXMOM IN SOUTH AFRICA

A HAPPY DAY...to say the least!

2010-05-15T18:37:00.000+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!MAXMOM here...

Hello there everyone!

It's been a relaxing, sunny and beautiful day here in Johannesburg, South Africa.

We don't always have sunny weather as people might be led to believe. On a few mornings this week we woke up to this...

But today was the perfect day!

The family are all home for the weekend and the worries about Maxdog have been put in the cupboard for the moment.

This is MAXDOG's 98th Day of Grace!

Yes, it's quite amazing! I still believe that he is a living, walking, breathing miracle!!!

I believe it more so when he has such a good day like today...!

I woke up early this morning and decided to make muffins.

Well as they started baking, his ears and eyes perked up. Muffins have always been a hit with Maxdog and we've regarded them as his absolute favourite treat of all time! Well he demolished two in a row and later the 'Boss' sneaked quite a few to him whilst I wasn't looking. It all seemed to cheer him up no end.

In addition, Maxdog decided it was time to catch up on his swimming whilst we were out for the day. He had another swim on our return - encouraged mainly by me - just to rid him of the dirt he'd collected whilst running around our house during our absence.

This afternoon I took the goldens for their walk and Maxdog acted like he had no cares in the world. His 'romp' to the green belt was repeated twice and the plants on the pavement had their liquid nourishment too. This evening he actually came and asked me for food (WOW!!!).

I dished him up some of his approved tin food and he ate quite a bit! (YIPPEE!)

It seems that Maxdog has a new lease of life today, so all is well in this household for the moment.

This coming Monday will be his 100th day of grace! To us this will be another miraculous milestone! Judging from today, he has excellent chances of making it to at least Monday.

Each day is a gift and we relish every moment.

It gets a little chilly now in the evenings and we usually spend our time enjoying each other's company in front of a heater...

It is really quite cosy...with ALL my loved ones around...

Today I went out with my family to enjoy some school events.

One of the excursions was to watch a rugby match between two fiercely competitive schools. The venue was beautiful...

This particular school is nestled amongst the beautiful buildings of Parktown Johannesburg.

I wanted to show you this picture because the buildings in the background are of the

CONSTITUTIONAL COURT OF SOUTH AFRICA.

(Set on the hilltop of Braamfontein)

I just thought the whole setting was so pretty...

We could also see the main TELKOM TOWER from another vantage point.

This tower is to be the main broadcasting tower for the

FIFA SOCCER WORLD CUP 2010.

Thanks to this tower, the entire world will be receiving coverage of this amazing event -the kickoff in just 26 days time!

(I just thought it to be a point of interest)

The only remaining news is that

KING TOFFEE HAD A BATH...

...which means that his Lordship has even more bargaining power...

I hate to admit it, but I'm generally bowled over by cuteness!

That is all my news for today!

Sending everyone all my love and wishing you all a wonderful and happy weekend.

With love,

"THE SOCIETY FOR ANIMALS IN DISTRESS"...YOUR beneficiary!

2010-05-14T17:03:00.004+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!MAXDOG here...

Hello there to all our friends across the globe.

Today's post is rather a long one and is all about where

YOUR DONATIONS have gone.

It is a kinda 'report back' but really important one!

So please grant us some lee-way..

Do you remember this?....

Yes, it is me with my MAX-TERPIECE!

(You can read all about this amazing gift from our blogging friends by following the leads in the Right Hand Side Bar)

Well, many of you will know that there were additional funds from this incredible gift from my cyber-buddies and that we chose to donate that extra R1000 to the:
SOCIETY FOR ANIMALS IN DISTRESS.

here in Johannesburg, South Africa.

This is an organisation which does amazing charitable Veterinary work in some of the poverty stricken townships around our city.

Well, as a result of YOUR GENEROUS DONATION, Maxmom was invited to their head office and farm so that I would be able to tell you all about where your funds have actually gone.

On Tuesday this week, Maxmom went along with a friend and they spent a couple of hours graciously being shown around by the General Manager of this organisation.

I would love to share some of Maxmom's visit with you all...

There was a special doggie-buddy there to greet Maxmom on their arrival...

"BOB",

originally came from one of the townships and has turned into the most amazing 'educational' dog for many of the Society's activities.

Maxmom decided that she had to purchase one of the Society's T-shirts. (which you will see in the pictures below). The general manager, Heather Muller, spent a lot of time with Maxmom carefully expaining the Society's activities and vision...

The SOCIETY FOR ANIMALS IN DISTRESS has been active since 1958.

Their primary function is to provide Veterinary assistance and care to communities who are challenged by poverty and ignorance. The Society has a Mission:

"Protecting Animals, Healing their Sickness, Fighting Ignorance, Empowering Others to do the same."

They have a number of mobile clinics which visit poverty stricken townships on a daily basis and they also have an educational programme which has been implemented in 63 schools around Johannesburg.

Their activities rely entirely on donations!

Maxmom's visit to their farm on Tuesday brought a whole new understanding about their wonderful work. Maxmom says that there is an ambience of love and care which permeates the whole facility. It truly is the most loving environment and the animals look extremely well cared for!

Maxmom's first point of call were the horses who come from coal yards in the townships to heal. They are brought to the centre to foal as well as to recover from any illnesses. These horses usually carrying heavy carts of coal. Although Maxmom is generally scared of horses, these were really friendly. This is a mare and her foal..

Another friendly face...

Below is Heather Muller:

the general manager of the society, with one of the horses...

Maxmom again...

There are numerous horse stalls at the facility as well as enclosed areas for the various animals. Some sheep...

A resident goat...

This was a really delightful character...

Maxmom couldn't help a closer picture of his eye...

As they came around the corner, on the way to the centre's hospital, there was a surprise.

Heather told us that they haven't had sufficient funds to build state-of-the-art equine theatres, so the operations have to take place on the lawn next to the hospital. It is important to note that ONLY Equine surgery takes place outside. Whilst Maxmom was there, there were numerous operations taking place on the premises. The vets here do many castrations, neuterings and spayings. This was one of the donkeys being attended to...

The girl with the blond hair is a veterinary student from Sweden who is doing voluntary community work. This operation had two vets in attendance, a veterinary nurse and numerous assistants.

Heather explained that it was 'operating day' and that she was going to take us to see what was happening inside the Animal Hospital. She also prepared us by explaining that the centre was in dire need of a 'recovery room' for their patients...

Inside one of the theatres:

The dogs which you see on the floor are in the process of recovery.

Inside another theatre...

This little doggie (below) was waiting for her operation.

(The hospital attends to many orthopedic cases as a result of animals being run over by cars, etc, etc)

It should be said, at this stage, that

the Society is NOT a rescue facility!

All the animals you see actually belong to owners who struggle with affordability and who have voluntarily released them to the society in order to heal or to be sterilized. Despite being poor, the owners of the animals do contribute financially to their care.

This sweet little doggie (below)was waiting for the Vets to correct his inverted eyelids.

He is a dog who was handed over to a domestic worker whose owner no longer wanted him because of his condition...

When Maxmom came out of the hospital, the donkey (who had his operation) was coming around from his anaesthetic.

Although still very dopey he was being well attended to by one of the staff..

Maxmom and her friend were then taken to see the doggie kennels.

Again, ALL the dogs have owners to which they will be returned once they are better.

Maxmom was surprised by how well they were all socialised.

Heather explained that in the townships there are no walls so the animals have learned to get along with each other.

Here is Maxmom saying "Hello" to "HAPPY" - a rescued dog who has turned into an amazing educational ambassador which they now use in the school programme.

(The only reason he is confined is because there are operations in progress on the lawn. Usually he is free to roam the farmyard.

This is the 'orthopedic' kennels.

The animals here are all recovering from their operations.

The donkey enclosure...

...and this is "HEATHER THE DONKEY".

Yes, you guessed it...she is named after the general manager and is a really friendly donkey.

Maxmom fell totally in love with her...

So there you have it!

This is where ...

YOUR DONATION HAS GONE!!!

Thank you so much again for your generosity.

"Thank you"...

to Heather and the staff for your hospitality and for taking the time to show your donors what you are doing with our money!!!

If you want to know more about the

SOCIETY FOR ANIMALS IN DISTRESS

please visit them

HERE

(and feel free to contribute in any way you can)

Sending lotsaluv to you all and wishing you a happy and comfortable weekend.

MAXDOG IN SOUTH AFRICA

MY GOLDEN FAMILY...I LOVE YOU!

2010-05-13T11:44:00.002+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!
MAXDOG here...

Hello there to all my furry-buddies across the world!

Thank you so much for all your good wishes, prayers and comments which you have left on my blog. Thank you too for all the emails we have been receiving behind the scenes. Every single one of them is treasured and pasted in Maxmom's heart.

Thank you!

Now, I have something special for you:...

This is the only picture I have of my puppies all together...

I want to dedicate this post to my entire Golden family,

but especially to my human grandmother and grandfather:...

ZENA AND ALAN

who helped to 'breed' me into this world.

You see, I received an email from POLLYANNA.

Pollyanna belongs to Zena and Alan and is kinda my 'wife' .

Here is the email:

Hi Max, my boy.

I thought it was time that l put paws to computer. This is your wife, POLLYANNA here. I’m doing well. It was my birthday last week, I was 12 years old.

Unfortunately a few of our kids have passed on over the last few months. Our very special girl INDIANNA who did so very well in the breed ring passed away after a very short illness in March this year. She was top golden bitch for 2 years running. (I too did this in my younger years). INDIANNA, was loved doing her Paws for People therapy work with Children and the old people.

Two off our Boys have gone over the rainbow bridge and both their mum's have now got new kids from our mum's breed.

---XxX---

To MAX: (a note from your mum Sherry):

l am still going strong now in my 13th year. I did attend 2 or 3 shows last year and did well in the Veterans class. I don't do many field trials now - it is bit of a long day for us old ones

I think it is time that l put my collar and lead on and paid you a visit. Mum tells us all about you, MAX!

Hang in there my boy Max we all know you can.

Love to our boy Max from all the Ruffitwood Golden's

This email kinda made me nostalgic again, so I thought I'd show everyone some pictures of the "old times".

This next picture features my mother, SHERRY and my girlfriend POLLYANNA...

(From left to right: MAXDOG, POLLYANNA, ?, SHERRY (my mom) and my TAMMY-GIRL)

Here we are again...

(L to R) Pollyanna(my wife), Sherry(my mom),Maxdog and Tammy-Girl)

Yes, we all met together one day to go on the famous

702 Walk the Talk

in 2003

Maxmom and me...at the finish line...

In my earlier days I was a show dog but Maxmom was really terrified of the ring, so Granny Zena took me into the ring. These are some old pictures of my first show...

Granny Zena: Thank you for taking me showing. I'm sorry that I didn't want to stand properly in the ring that day. I was still so young - only a few months old - but I had a lot of fun sniffing all the other doggies. That judge sure was scary...

Hey, but I eventually came THIRD!!!(Don't tell a soul that there were only three of us in the ring! BOL!)

I also want to thank Donovan for all the fun we had together!
Donovan and Zena became my handlers during the shows.

(Maxmom was far too nervous of the ring! BOL!)...

(L to R: Donovan and MAXDOG, Granny Zena and SHERRY?)

Granny Zena...did you know that I also did some therapy work for Paws for People?

It seems that my daughter (Indiana) and I had common interests...

Maxdog demonstrating "Leave it!".

(I was only 18 months old)...

But I also want to thank Granny Zena for placing me with my forever family.

Maxmom has loved me from when I was a tiny puppy...

We have been a perfect match!...

My family helped me overcome my initial fear of water...

Thank you also, Granny Zena for all the fun I had with your goldens at the

EASTER ANIMAL CARNIVAL...

You were so proud of me when I got into the newspapers...

Thank you too, Granny Zena, for organising my special girl friend...

TAMMY-GIRL!

We became wonderful friends when she was still a puppy.

...and now she is still by my side while I fight my illness...

Thank you also for allowing me to sire such beautiful puppies with

POLLYANNA.

I am so pleased that they have lived happy lives and found wonderful forever homes!

Please tell my puppy, INDIANNA's mommy - Shirley - that I am very sorry for her loss.

When I eventually get to the Rainbow Bridge, I will most definitely look out for her.

She and I will run together in the happy-hunting-grounds.

And finally...

To my special human Grandfather, ALAN...

I loved you from the day you delivered me!

You are a special man and I will never forget how you played with me every time I saw you!

Sending lotsaluv and lotsalicks to

ALL MY FRIENDS.

MAXDOG IN SOUTH AFRICA

CAN WE REALLY ANTICIPATE WHAT LIES AHEAD?

2010-05-12T11:14:00.000+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!

MAXMOM here...

Looking into the future is more difficult than you think!

The daily battle with getting Max to eat continues.

Every morning, I think...”How much longer?”

I must stress that this is my personal perspective and I accept that Maxdog's might be totally different. But as I look at him sleeping (peacefully and pain free) for most of the day, having refused my food offerings, I am alone in my doubtful thoughts.

This is my dog who has evolved from a vital, vibrant, energetic and communicative dog to a dog who is content to sleep away the hours.

His eyelids seem constantly heavy and the questions in my mind about his longevity seem to whittle away at my understanding of his condition. It’s the mornings which expose his stark reality.

One thing I have learnt over the past three months of living with Max is NEVER to write him off! The times where I have felt that it is impossible for him to continue for much longer, he turns around and proves me wrong! If I go back into my personal diaries and read my writings in February, then I realise that I felt exactly the same then – ie “Not much longer!’ Yet he has proved me wrong time and time again.

The transformation from his lethargic demeanour takes place from around 3pm. As the sun starts descending to the horizon, Maxdog comes to life. It’s a slow transition, but steady and firm. By 5pm, I have no option but to accede to his (and Tammy’s) demands, to pick up the leads and to exit the property with two excited Goldens who have their tails held high.

Before we go on our routed walk, I let them loose to run down the cul-de-sac towards the green belt – their favourite part. They wait until I say “Free” and then they fly. To watch Max participate in this jaunt again leads me to question myself, “Where is this energy coming from? That tumour is huge, yet he doesn’t look sick now! He should be dead, yet he acts like a puppy!” It is totally unfathomable.

(Max - last weekend)

As the 20 minute walk progresses, I can see that he is tiring. Usually on our return, he is begging, once again, to be let off for another run and I usually acquiesce. The noticeable difference at this point is that once he has been disconnected from the lead, he changes his mind, preferring to remain by my side to walk whilst Tammy disappears to bark and scout the perimeters.

Once home, Maxdog changes back into a very sleepy and lethargic dog and my concerns return.

Max’s appetite eventually becomes workable around 8pm after refusing any food/treats during the day. He has also taken to refusing food from me personally. Instead, the offerings of my husband are greatly appreciated. After another worrying day, we are usually able to go to sleep knowing that Max has indeed eaten something, perhaps not sufficient, but at least he has sustenance.

The departure to the Rainbow Bridge of some of our canine companions in cyberspace has given me unexpected privy to the future for my Maxdog and I am deeply saddened. It’s been immensely strengthening however to have shared their journey and I can’t stress enough – A real privilege! My hope is that by sharing my own reality, it might serve to strengthen others in the same way. But to experience the pain of loss in a premature, prolonged fashion, as I am experiencing with Max, is not something I’d wish on anyone! It is heart wrenching, heartbreaking and saps every ounce of my energy.

I am sorry that I’ve been unable to get to your blogs...sometimes I simply can’t. My heart is not in the right place. But I am very grateful that my friends who have remained with me on this journey with Maxdog. He is a real fighter and I should not judge him by my standards.

Thank you so much for being with me on this journey!

DIGBY...SADLY MISSED...

2010-05-11T08:58:00.002+02:00

A tribute to our departed friend:DIGBY....

As I look to the sunset I now know

That you are there...in its glorious glow.

Chasing bunnies, Playing with balls

soaking up smells in fields with no walls...

I follow your light...

Sadly missed...

There is a famous story about an amazing dog of Africa

"Jock of the Bushveld"

...which was made into a movie.

The theme song, "Brave Heart", by Johnny Clegg (a South African musician) is one of my all time favourites. The lyrics of the song itself remind me so much of the spirit of our amazing dogs who put up such a fight to struggle with these dreadful terminal illnesses.

Please go and take a listen to this video:

HERE

We send our love and comfort to

Angus, the "Font", their family and fur-brother Wilf.

With all our love,

A HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY UPDATE FROM THE DOGS IN THE MAXPACK

2010-05-09T10:58:00.001+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!MAXDOG here...

A very big "Hello" there to all my friends across the world!!!

I just wanted to wish all the mommies out there...

A HAPPY MOTHERS' DAY!!!!

On this my...

92nd Day of Grace!

When they told Mom 3 months ago that there was no more hope for me,

she would have never thought that I'd still be here today...

celebrating the day with all the mothers in the world.

Although my TAMMY-GIRL has never been a mother herself,

she is most definitely the canine mother of my pack...

So happy mothers day to my TAMMY-GIRL too!

You all know how special she is to me and she wrote a beautiful poem for me too - which is on Maxmom's other blog. If you want, you can read it ...

HERE.

She has been such a comfort to me in my up-and-down days and stays by my side most of the time...

TOFFEE-DOG is a law unto himself however...

But my TAMMY has been just wonderful!
Mom has been delighted, because there have been fleeting moments where I have offered to play with her...from my lying down position...

She also sits and waits with me by the kitchen door...

to help me remind Maxmom that it is time for our evening walk...

Other times, when I'm not in the mood to play, she'll simply do her own thing...

Maxmom says that it is very difficult to get me to eat things. She has had to be extremely creative in the things she offers me, because most things I'll flatly refuse. My latest trick is to refuse all food until after 9pm at night...then I'll go without for the next 24hours. My favourite things, however, are 'pancakes', so whilst I like them, she says she'll make them...

(Did you notice "Murray's" St. Francis statuette that watches over all my activities?)

Yes, I really do enjoy pancakes...

...and I like keeping an eye out on Maxmom...

...While TAMMY-GIRL keeps an eye out on me...

So to all the mommies

(especially the mommies of my fur-buddies),

here are some special flowers

FOR YOU!!!...

If you don't know, ...

these are our

SOUTH AFRICAN PROTEAS!

(Our national flower!)

HAVE A WONDERFUL MOTHERS' DAY!

With lotsalicks from all of us

MAXDOG IN SOUTH AFRICA

YOUR AND OUR CONTRIBUTION TO A WORTHY CHARITY!

2010-05-05T14:09:00.000+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!MAXDOG here...

(Maxdog November 2009)

Hello there to all my furry friends across the globe on this my

88th Day of Grace!

I have been chatting to my pack and we would like to make an announcement today...

Most of my readers will recall the story of the

MAX-TERPIECE:

For those who might want a reminder...

This was an incredible gift given to Maxmom from all my cyber-buddies who collaborated, collected funds and commissioned a painting of me . The amazing thing was that this collection of the funds generated sufficient cash to also pay for the framing of this beautiful painting.

The story of the Max-terpiece will remain one of generosity, hope and love and the painting itself is proudly displayed on the wall of our sitting room...

Some time ago, the artist of the Max-terpiece,

KATHLEEN COY

contacted Maxmom and told her that she would be transferring your collected funds to us here in South Africa. Well, Maxmom went to collect this cash gift today and discovered that there was even more money than what was needed for the framing.

We thought that we too would like to do something special here in

SOUTH AFRICA

in honour of all our wonderful cyber-buddies!!!

Over the past few months we have received so many messages of encouragement, support and upliftment and have come face-to-face with the realities of the love and generosity of people across the world as I have battled with my cancer.

NO AMOUNT OF "THANK YOU's" WILL EVERY BE ENOUGH!

We have decided, as a family to donate that extra money (which YOU raised and including our own personal contribution) to an Organisation here in South Africa which does absolutely marvellous work!...

If you would like to look at what this organisation does please visit their website

HERE

So we have transferred a total amount of

R1000

to their bank account to support their amazing work.

Dear ANIMALS IN DISTRESS...

this donation is 'with love from the blogging community'

We hope this will honour the entire Max-project and...

ALL MY BLOGGING FRIENDS

...and give a rainbow of hope to those animals in our country who are in dire need of help.

Thank you again for your amazing generosity!!!

If there are folk out there who still want to contribute in some way,
I encourage you to visit the website of

THE SOCIETY FOR ANIMALS IN DISTRESS

Apparently The Society for Animals in Distress is indeed able to receive International Donations via a

"Swift code: FIRNZAJJXXX" "

...Your own bank will know what to do!

If you do decide that you want to donate to this organisation, they have asked that you please indicate the reference:

"MAX DONATION"

Thank you again for your amazing generosity.

This is a wonderful legacy!
Sending lotsaluv and lotsalicks to you all!

A "HELLO" AND AN UPDATE

2010-05-03T15:04:00.001+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!

MAXMOM here...

Hello there to all our friends across the world!
on this rainy Autumn Day in JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA!!! Although I'm consciously quietening down this particular blog, I hope it's okay with you that I put up a blogpost every now and again. There is no change in Max except that he is slowing down more and more each day. We try and make the best of the days that we still have together. Yesterday was a beautiful Autumn Day and we took the two Goldens on a longer walk - partly to assess how Max is doing...

As I have said on my other blog,

MAXMOM's BRIC-A-BRAC

The autumn colours of our neighbourhood are exquisite!...

TAMMY-GIRL thinks we are all far too slow...

But then there is a lot to look at!...

Today the rain has settled in and the temperatures have dropped.

Rainy Autumn days bring a sense of solemnity to the inhabitants of our buzzing city and its no different in our household.
These are days to curl up, cuddle up and wait for the warmer weather. A steamy beverage encased in chilly fingers is the perfect anecdote. The dogs cuddle up too - always at my feet and always together...

I wanted to also say that as Max's time to leave us draws closer

(and again,...I DON'T KNOW WHEN THAT WILL BE!)

I will be wrapping up this blog and moving MAXMOM's activities and those of

TAMMY-GIRL and KING TOFFEE

to my personal blog,

MAXMOM's BRIC-A-BRAC

I would really love to maintain the friendships I've made amongst my doggie-blogging friends.

In the new blog, I will be posting both about the dogs and other things that interest me. This blog, 'THE ADVENTURES OF MAXDOG' will then remain as a legacy to Max after he has left us.

Please come and visit me at my new blog (and follow me perhaps?)

I leave you with a picture of the Golden duo

(apologies to my readers who have already seen it!)

Sending all my warm, uplifting and healing wishes to the doggies and kitties who are struggling and especially to my dear friends in France...

WILF AND DIGBY

(Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time!)

With love,

WISHING ALL OUR FRIENDS A HAPPY WEEKEND...

2010-04-30T17:51:00.000+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!

Hello everyone!
This is a short note just to say that all is still well in our household.

We just wanted to wish you all a wonderful, peaceful and happy weekend.

With love

A TIME TO BE QUIET...

2010-04-27T11:58:00.001+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!

MAXMOM here...

There is a time for everything,

And a season for every activity under heaven:

A time to be born and a time to die,

A time to plant and a time to uproot,

A time to kill and a time to heal,

A time to tear down and a time to build,

A time to weep and a time to laugh,

A time to mourn and a time to dance,

A time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,

A time to embrace and a time to refrain,

A time to search and a time to give up,

A time to keep and a time to throw away,

A time to tear and a time to mend,

A time to be silent and a time to speak,

A time to love and a time to hate,

A time for war and a time for peace.

(Ecclesiastes 3:1-8)

---xXx---

“THE ADVENTURES OF MAXDOG”

...has always been about positivity:

Sharing, Caring and Uplifting!

When dealing with a terminally ill dog, it is difficult to remain objective. Emotions are high and subjective and often reflect negativity no matter how hard one tries. I am aware that this blog has far and wide-reaching effects in cyberspace and really hope that when Max has finally left us, it will serve to remain true, in its entirety, to its constant vision of Sharing, Caring and Uplifting, even though it will then be stagnant.

This is to be Max's legacy.

I am feeling more and more, that it is coming to the time where I need to ‘be quiet’ in terms of this particular blog and its posts.... NOT to withdraw from the doggie-blogging community entirely, but simply to take time out to be close to my family and my dogs. I will however still be active on my personal blog.

I give you my commitment to advise you when Max eventually leaves us. I have no idea when that will be – we cannot predict these things. Either way, this is our time...

...to simply be quiet.

I hope you understand and will remember just how much I love and appreciate all my friends.

With love

The details of my personal blog:
"MAXMOM's BRIC-A-BRAC"

MAX-TERPIECE IS HOME!!!

2010-04-26T12:45:00.002+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!MAXMOM here...

It's home!!! It's home!!!

Hello there to all our friends across the world!
Yes you heard it!
THE MAX-TERPIECE IS HOME!!!

beautififully framed

...and it is

MAGNIFICENT!!!

Thank you again to all my blogging buddies across the world for making this painting (and its framing!) possible!
It is and will remain an incredible gift...always! A special thanks too to Maxdog's artist...

KATHLEEN COY

(Do go and visit her website to see her magnificent work)

I took 'Max-terpiece' to a trusted framer and artist in his own right.
He has a shop near where we live:
FINE ART AND FRAMES...

My thanks also goes to
FINE ART AND FRAMES
(Randridge Mall)
for the their splendid and personalised care!

THE MAX-TERPIECE ...

has it's own special place on the wall in our main family room where we can look at it every time we pass by or when we sit and watch TV.
(Maxdog so enjoys being with us in this room!)

We will be constantly reminded of the incredible love that flows so naturally through the blogworld.

Thank you so very much again!!!

A NOTE:

We chose the colours of the frame to both highlight the painting and to blend in with our family room where it resides. You will notice a chorded golden insert. We have added this to highlight the beautiful portrait as well as to recognise that he is a GOLDEN retriever. There is also an olive green/gold section in the frame which is the perfect match to our lounge suite. We truly hope we have done our blogging friends justice in the framing and that you like the end result.

What do you think?...

---xXx---

MAXDOG

is still with us on this his...

79th Day of Grace!

Yesterday he had a good day. As many of you know, his appetite is erratic. Foods that he's been happy with at one meal will be ignored at another. Sometimes he loves biscuits and other times he'll spit them out.

The 'cheese burger I prepared for him over the weekend, was wolfed up and relished...

Not one morsel left!!! ...

That is when I smile and know that we are "good" for a few more hours.

The regular afternoon walks tell all!

... and MAXDOG and TAMMY-GIRL still demand them!...

The weather here has recently turned chilly and our two Goldens love cuddling up at night...

Today Max is quite nauseous.

We take each day for what it offers.

If he follows his usual pattern, he should be back to his old self at

"Walkies Time" this afternoon.

Yes, it's not easy battling with a sick dog!

Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with our dear friend...

DIGBY

and his family in France as they also battle with his current health.

Please go and visit them and give them some of your fabulous moral support.

Once again, THANK YOU to all my friends for our beautiful

MAX-TERPIECE!

Also...

If you would like to test your resolve with delicious delectables, please visit

MAXMOM's BRIC-A-BRAC

Wishing you all a wonderful day!With love...

YOUR LOVE AND SUPPORT FOR DIGBY IS NEEDED!

2010-04-25T11:09:00.002+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!MAXMOM here...

Dear Friends...

In this blogging world of ours, we make friends...and then we make

FRIENDS!!!

In our own turmoil in fighting Max's own illness,

we are acutely aware of the emotional angst which goes along with a seriously ill dog.

Although we have lots of news for you from our own household,

we would like to dedicate this day towards

encouraging you to lend your prayers and support for

DIGBY

WHO IS GRAVELY ILL AT THIS VERY MOMENT!

Please would you take the time you would have spent on this blog to go and visit them

HERE

and lend the kind of support that you have so faithfully lent us in the past couple of months!

Dear Angus, "The Font", Wilf and Digby

This is for you...

Please know that the blogging world is right there with you at this difficult time!

With love

FOOTBALL FRIDAY

2010-04-23T13:30:00.003+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!

MAXDOG here...

Hello there to all my furry-buddies across our wonderful planet!Today is my...76th Day of Grace...and it is alsoFOOTBALL FRIDAY!!! Yes, we have only 48 days to go!!!...before the kickoff the the FIFA SOCCER WORLD CUP 2010SOUTH AFRICA!!!!Soccer Fever is starting to build dramatically in our country !!! Flags are flying on cars on our roads, Vuvuzelas are sounding, news reports tell of the state of our own,
"BAFANA BAFANA" team,and there is a general festive air in the mood of the country's citizens.We are ready to welcome all our international visitors!!! (If you are worried about TAMMY GIRL's expression, please don't! My dear girlfriend went into a dramatic trance when MAXMOM put the T-shirt on her. It was really quite funny! She has never had a T-shirt on in her 9yrs of life. She was literally stunned! The minute the T-shirt was removed however, she went darting off into the garden...presumably to chase the Hadedah Ibises. Rest assured: No Tammy-doggies were harmed in the taking of this picture!!!).Although my own humans were unable to get tickets to this amazing event, our household is also wrapped in the excitement. How do you like our T-Shirts?Are we good ambassadors or what?!Even KING TOFFEE looks kinda festive!!!...

He'd better put a smile on his face!

(I'll have to talk to him)

Our Stadiums are ready...

aren't they just stunning?!

Anyway, since it's only 48 days left, I will have to catch up on my sleeping!...

Mom says she is holding thumbs that I am around for the kick-off!

What do you mean, mom? I am a fighter!

On the day of the kickoff it will be my...

124th day of Grace!

What a moment that will be!

Wishing you all a fantabulous weekend!

It is a long weekend in South Africa this weekend with

FREEDOM DAY

being celebrated on Tuesday.

"IF" my blogposts are scanty,

just know that I am celebrating!!!

Lotsalicks

MAXDOG IN SOUTH AFRICA

RECEIVING GIFTS...a THANKFUL THURSDAY!

2010-04-22T12:11:00.000+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!MAXDOG here...

Hello there everybody!

Yes, it's Thursday..a thankful Thursday and my...

75th Day of Grace!!!

It is a beautiful, sunny Autumn Day here in

Johannesburg, South Africa.

The colours on the trees are simply beautiful...

Pretty shaped leaves are falling everywhere...

There is so much to be thankful for..!.

the little things and the big things...!

There are also things to be sad about...

We would like to express our sadness for the families of the 3 people who died in the

ROVOS RAIL TRAIN ACCIDENT

yesterday and particularly to our 40 American visitors who were in that accident.

For those of you who don't know...

ROVOS RAIL is a well respected luxury train that embarks on various site-seeing luxury excursions in our country.

We send our warm wishes for a speedy recovery to the survivors of this horrific accident.

---xXx---

But the good news is that I got a wonderful, SURPRISE PACKAGE in the post...!!!

The "Boss" brought it home from work yesterday..

The address said that it was from

GINGER JASPER

This is my beautiful kitty friend and her Mommy who live in West Yorkshire.

What a lovely surprise!!!

THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!

Well MAXMOM and I sat down to open it...

She was taking so long with the flashy beast - and giving instructions to the "Boss" - that I fell asleep...sorry!

Anyway, when she'd finished organising the "Boss", she decided to sit on the floor with me and investigate this kitty parcel...

That is a VERY pretty little notepad indeed!
Excuse me not looking at the camera, but KING TOFFEE was trying to take over.

What else is in there Mom?...

MAXMOM took a moment to read me the lovely, hand-written letter from

GINGER JASPER's Mommy!

(Thank you so much for your kindness!)

Wow! Look! They sent Mom a beautiful Golden Retriever mug too!!!

Do you think you can put some yoghurt in there for ME, Mom?

Mom says "NO"...it's for her tea!

Okay Mom, can I investigate myself?...

Geesh Mom! Did you see?

That letter is written on a cool

GINGER JASPER

letterhead!

Getting such exciting gifts are sleepy work!

zzz

Okay...I'm revived!...I'm cool!...

Go away, TOFFEE!

AND...

check it out...there is a beautiful little Golden Retriever Bag as well.

I think I am a spoilt-rotten dog!

So I'm going to bark a big

THANK YOU to GINGER JASPER...

"WOOF!"

---xXx---

That was seriously tiring work!...

I'm just going to have to go and sleep with my

TAMMY GIRL...

Okay, maybe not!

Mom's bed is better...

zzz...zzzz...zzzzz...

zzzz....zzzz (Oh!)zz...zzLotsa..

zzz...Licks..

z...MAXDOG...zz...IN...zz

zzz...SOUTH AFRICA...zzz...

MAXDAD's MESSAGE TO HIS PUPS...

2010-04-21T14:07:00.003+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!MAXDOG here...

Hello there to all my blogging friends around the world!

On this my

74th Day of Grace!!! I am really happy today because I got a big surprise in my 'inbox'. Yes, you won't believe it......I got a note from one of my very own puppies! I sired a litter with "Polly" many years ago and now I know that at least one of them is still alive and well!!! This is the note I received: "Hi dear Max. Guess what? This is your daughter, Jody, from Brakpan. You and my Mom, Polly, are my heroes. I have to tell you that my human Mom, Daphne, has told me all about you. She thinks you are the very best Golden Retriever ever! Be strong, Dad, and hang in there as long as possible. You are so special, and by being so brave you are giving hope and lots of tailwags to all the other dogs out there who are also ill, with this horrible disease called cancer.

With lots of licks from your 'little' girl, Jody (and my two children who live with me, Shilo and Loftus)"

Well, MAXMOM got all leaky with this note, so I decided to do a special post for us all today.
It is a LONG POST, but I think an important one... I hope you don't mind?!
You see, I really think that we should all...
TEACH OUR CHILDREN WELL!

So this is for my pups, grandpups and all my fur-friends...

---xXx---

MAXDOG's ADVICE:
(To JODY, my grandpups and ALL other pups!)

Dear JODY..
Thank you for making contact with me!
It is important to keep contact with your family and you have inspired me today. I want to give you a gift...some small tips to give your own pups so that they can make their way through this difficult world of ours...
So here goes...

Firstly...It's good to meditate and discover the things that are important to you...

Like looking to the heavens for your inspiration...

It's important too, to look after your home and all those who live in it...

...but also find other places to really romp...

Please remember to reach out to those who struggle,
no matter how bad your own troubles are!
(Remember you ALWAYS have some space to give to others...!)

Always see the good in your human friends and lick away their tears when they need it...

Remember...
there is ALWAYS something new and interesting around the next corner.
Don't get stuck in a rut!

Play hard! Meet lots of friends and find out where you belong...

("Tigger")

Tolerate the quirks of your owners. Pose for the photos, pose for the judges, pose for your friends...anything to make their day...

Seek out new and interesting things and share them with your pack! Afterall, what use is there discovering something and simply keeping it to yourself?

Remember pups, a smile is universal, acceptable and inexpensive!
Your tail will be your substitute for a smile in this life...keep it wagging!

Be on guard so that bad things can't enter your domain...only allow the good in!...

Be honest: Look people in the eye and tell the truth!
(Okay, some cultures don't look people in the eye - it is bad manners. Some dogs also feel the same... Nevertheless, tell the truth!)

Remember, it's not nice to beg...you look pathetic!...

Be of service to others - wait for their request...

...and don't worry if they don't need your help!
You CAN'T help or please everyone!!!

Sticking your tongue out is NOT always becoming!

Don't sulk if your walk request is refused!

Barking might be cute, but its not always becoming!...choose your words carefully!...

Its good to realise when your conversation is boring!

Understand that there is always someone in the wings who wants what you have got....so appreciate what you have.

If you become the leader, take up your role with honour, dignity and humility!
...and know when it's time to lead from behind!...

Enjoy your treats...with relish...

Let others take the limelight too!...

("Tigger" at Family Pets, Randridge Mall)

Remember your manners...especially to say "Good morning!"...

Don't be envious of others enjoying their own pleasures...

Live life to the full!
Enjoy every moment!
Sniff the air daily, soak up the weather and dig lots of holes...exhuberantly...

Choose your partners well...

Explore your world and everything in it...

Finally: Live in the moment and enjoy everything that life has to offer you!
Know that others might emulate you, so present a good example!...

I also wrote a poem sometime ago for my pups.
It is called...

"YOU’LL BE A DOG, MY PUP!"

If you can find a household that is a happy home
And adopt its styles and ways,
And honour all its human hands
So that you will be there for many days,

If you can find the Master of that home
And sniff out exactly what He needs,
And learn His cues and all His tasks
To purposefully carry out His deeds,

If you can “Fetch!” on His command,
And “Down!”...and “Stay!”...and “Wait!”
Or jump through hoops on His demand
Or bark at strangers at the gate,

If you can tune your ears to sounds
Which maybe have no place,
And puckle your nose to stay alert,
Or wag your tail to start the race,

If you can sniff the air for a change of scene
Or read the news on a trunk of a tree,
And guard your bones, but share your treats
And celebrate when you are free,

If you can growl or huff and call His bluff
And ask to soon be fed,
Or lie at His feet when the day is done
And know that it’s time for bed,

If you can bare a bath – to clean your fur –
To make you spruce and bright,
To accompany Him with a heart assured
To show off His delight,

If you can do all this without a slouch
And know your Master’s thumb is up,
Yours is the Earth and everything in it
And – what’s more – YOU’LL BE A DOG, MY PUP!

(Caryl Moll - July 2009)

With lots and lots of licks to Jody and all the grandpups

(Lotsalicks to all my friends too!)

From your Dad...

MAXDOGDAD IN SOUTH AFRICA

"FEEL GOOD" MOMENTS..

2010-04-20T11:04:00.004+02:00

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA!!!MAXMOM here...

Hello there everybody!

As Maxdog slowly and steadily deteriorates, I have decided that I am going to convert my heartache and I am going to have a...

"FEEL GOOD MOMENT " DAY!

It's really difficult somedays to watch your beloved companion battle with the inevitable.

Again - I don't know when it will be, but the same angst that I felt on the day the specialists gave me the news, remains. At that point I was lead to believe it he only had two weeks left.

But today is his...

73rd Day of Grace...

I have to continually remind myself that each day is a gift...

but it is sometimes very hard!

So..

Today I invite you to join me in reflecting on some of the moments which give us all a 'feel good' feeling.

As dog owners, I know that there are plenty of them but it would be nice to hear some of yours too....

These 'feel good' moments don't only have to be about our furry friends.

Let's embrace them all!

---xXx---

HERE ARE SOME OF MY OWN 'FEEL GOOD' MOMENTS:

(In totally random order.)

(To get YOU started...)

* A steamy beverage clutched in my icy fingers on a chilly morning.

* The smell of baking bread or muffins wafting through the house.

* Waking up and suddenly realising that it's Saturday and I am able to steal a few more moments in bed.

* Puppy Breath

* The surreal and sudden quiet that settles during the extraordinary phenomenon of an eclipse.

* A wake-up lick from one of my furry friends

(The following photos are all OLD photos...)

* The bright sunlight emerging from the clouds after a sudden shower of rain and the smell of a clean new world.

* The soothing sound of the water feature in our garden.

*Watching smiles explode in welcome at the airport.

* The sounds of the dogs running trenches in our passage before their evening walk.

*The moment when the sun dips below the horizon from the top of Table Mountain in Cape Town.

* The feel of the sand between your toes as you step onto the beach.

* Opening a surprise package from my distant fur-friends

* The feeling of total bonding during MAXDOG's ear rub...

* Watching MAXDOG finish his food

* Having KING TOFFEE relax into my chest in deep, deep contentment

* The Sound of MAXDOG's tail thumping on the floor

* The faces and sounds of my canine 'welcoming committee' when I get home.

* The Sounds of Flapping Hadedah Ibises followed by TAMMY GIRL's frustrated bark.

* The solitary cry of an African fish eagle in the African bushveld...

* Being witness to something quite extraordinary...that very few of us will ever see...

* The last stitch to a quilt

* MAXDOG saying "mmm...Om!" spontaneously.

* Getting a clean bill of health at the Vet

* Cuddling your dog...

* The pack scuttling to the front door in the evening, without barking, indicating that "The Boss" is home.

* MAXDOG producing a 30cm record string of drool whilst waiting for my muffins to come out of the oven.

* Tucking my cold feet under MAXDOG's warm body on a cold winter's evening.

* A perfect recall

MOST OF ALL!.....

* Getting up on this 73rd Day of Grace and realising that it is indeed ...

ANOTHER DAY OF GRACE!!!

So what are YOUR "Feel Good moments"?

UPDATE PS:

My 'feel good moment' of the day is:

BOUNCING BERTIE'S BLOG

(Go and take a look!)