Sometimes when words fail us, the easiest way to say something is to let a dog do the talking. Here’s Veggie with some sad news.
A change has occurred here, at this place that became my sanctuary. The change is so palpable that every human and canine who walks through the gate can feel it in their bones. My nemesis is gone. I have outlived him.
We were two so similar, traveling the same path from unwanted dog, disposed of as easily as someone’s trash, to beloved companion and friend of many, and yet we were as different as day and night. My slight frame, covered clumsily with coarse blond hair, barely reached halfway up his long sleek black legs. He put his complete trust in the humans, giving each one the benefit of the doubt. I make each one earn my favor, and even then, I’m careful with my affections. Our entire lives here, he moved confidently and gracefully while I ambled along behind him, each of us whispering our mutual disdain.
He even tried to kill me once. But he is gone, and I remain.
We were roommates, sharing a little barn near the house. Once, other dogs lived there with us, but slowly they passed away one by one until only we were left. After dinner, I’d lie under my heater and watch him chase mice. Even in our old age, he was lightning quick… until one day, he just wasn’t. He died there, in our barn.
I often wished he didn’t live here with me, that he didn’t share my barn or my people. I wished I were bigger and could bark louder. I wished he couldn’t outrun me or ignore my growls. Now I don’t know what to wish for. In the company of so many, I’m alone. I have outlived my nemesis, and no one else measures up.
Goodbye, Max.
I loved Max so much! He was such a great dog. I had never seen a Doberman before that leaned on you like a Greyhound — I loved it! I will miss you sweet boy!
Oh, Max.
Max was such a lovable sweetheart! When I was at the Farm I always wanted to take him home with me.
….i’m crying….that was beautiful. Joy
I only came once to SAHSA, but I will never forget Max; he cheered me up that day and made all the difference. RIP Max
So sad. I loved max!
Very well put, “Veggie”!
I am so sad once again to hear of the passing of one of the beloved dogs from Sasha Farm. I had the pleasure of getting to know and love each and every one of the dogs when I was fortunate enough to be able to volunteer at the farm. I love and miss all of my friends there (four legged and two legged), past and present. A little piece of my heart goes with Max and all the others that have preceded him in death. Thanks to all that care for the animals.
Carol
Dear Max..I first met you in November2008, my first visit to Sasha Farm with the Hamsa Yoga group to tour the sanctuary and learn about selfless service.
You were lying by the heater in the “peope barn” and came to me pressing against my legs, asking for love as well as sharing your affection toward me. I fell in love with you that moment.
In April of 2009, I came every Friday to volunteer. It was always you, my favorite doggie that I loved to see!
I knew you as being handsome, graceful, sweet and affectionate. I will miss you deeply, but am relieved you are not in pain and suffering what could of been even more tragic of a way to die.
Thank you, for being my friend, even if it only was for 7 months. You were the Dobie I always wanted.
With love
Carol Joy
I am so sorry to hear about Max passing. I remember him well from the short time I volunteered at Sasha. What a sweet Dog with the most expressive eyes. I can only imagine how difficult it is for everyone at Sasha to see so much death but all should be comforted by the fact that they have made such a difference in so many lives. Max was surely one of the lucky ones to have been given a second chance and be loved by so many.
I knew I shouldn’t have read this at work. This was an amazing post. We love you, Max. xo Jenney and cats
Good bye, sweet boy Max. You will be missed so much. No more Max snout in my lap during board meetings.
Every Sunday I listen to music from The Hearts of Space. Below is the introduction to this weeks program called, Fading World”.
“As we journey deeper into the autumn soundscape, the music reflects the progression of the seasons. After the bounty of summer, it’s a time of receding, darkening, diminishing…marked by a final blaze of intense color, then desaturation — as life withdraws and retreats. The music of autumn is complex, with foggy timbres, minor key harmonies, descending progressions, and patient suspensions. It’s the sound of withdrawal, deflation, and retreat, as the natural world prepares for the rigors of winter.”
The music was beautiful and sad. My world faded recently this autumn. I listened and looked at the empty space where Max slept and wept.
Max was kind enough to allow all that came to the farm feel as though they were giving him something. When in reality it was him gifting us with his giant presence and heart!
Max was my daughter, Maddie’s, favorite dog. He was one of the first that we met when we first toured the farm.
He may have been a giant, but he was a gentle soul. He will be greatly missed.