To the editor:

To some people, he would not be considered a dog of good breeding or high status. He was a mixed breed: malamute and chow. When my wife and I picked him up from the Lawrence Humane Society on May 31, 2001, we never suspected how much joy, love and dedication he would bring into our lives. We named him Maximus in irony. He was so gentle and friendly, the exact opposite of General Maximus from the movie “Gladiator.” We called him Max.

I walked Max around the neighborhood every weekday evening if weather permitted. Max had many friends and admirers, especially many children who loved to hug and pet him. Max loved to be patted and stroked, and even kissed on the top of his head. (We tried to stop kids from doing that!)

On Dec. 29, Max left us, a victim of a physical defect in his heart, probably present since birth. Strong and healthy in every way, he suddenly had difficulty breathing. Dr. Ermeling and her staff at Gentle Care did everything they could, giving Max their technical skills and giving us their compassion.

I have never known a more loving, sweet and faithful companion. My wife is a faithful supporter of the Humane Society and is proud of the many pets she has gotten from animal shelters through the years. We love you and miss you, Max. After we grieve for you, you can be sure we will go to the Humane Society and take one of your homeless buddies into our home and hearts.

Doug Vickers,
Lawrence