How do you stay gentle and joyous when your body betrays you and your world turns upside down? Ask Max. Life has not been fair to Max, yet he remains one of the happiest boys you could imagine. We agree with his receiving shelter that his frequent submissive peeing puts him at very high risk of being a shelter-repeater; we are so glad Max was directed to us before that dangerous cycle was allowed to begin. Many thanks to those who sheltered and worked to find this special needs boy the best chance possible of finding happily-ever-after. He is showing himself to be the gentlest of souls, loving everyone, young and old, as well as his newest poodle friends, though he's quick to vanish if anyone gets rough or loud. He knows his basic commands--a little too well--and walks very carefully on a leash. He is completely housebroken and doesn't mind his bellyband for the submissive peeing (which is always small amounts). Max is liking chillaxing in his kennel, strolls down the lane, and treats, of course. But, mostly, he loves his new foster family, soaking in the attention--and loves to smile. Such a happy boy. | Max's background doesn't have a lot of information. He was born to a notoriously bad breeder. After being bought, he received minimal vetting, no "luxuries" like neutering and preventatives, and someone obviously made it very clear to him that obedience was of terribly great importance. The rest of the story tells itself: care of the body--food and grooming--was given but little care for the soul of the dog. Now this otherwise perfect boy, desperate to please, is a terrible worrier and submissive pee'er. Since settling in at his foster family, Max has been neutered and given a thorough work-up to look for any physical cause for his peeing (none was found). His recovery has had some minor bumps and he's spending these first days post-op enjoying some R&R. There will be time for the work to begin soon enough. We are waiting, watching, and hoping that the clearing of his testosterone, a trial of some meds, the low-pressure security he's learning to enjoy, and some confidence training will give Max his best chances for being the best he can be. His rehab is sure to be an interesting one...stay tuned! |