Max seems to be settling into our routine. When he first came to us, he wasn’t thrilled with my early rising (around 530 or 6 am) and certainly didn’t want to eat when I normally fed Buck, around 6:50 or so. But the last couple of mornings he had his breakfast early, and was ready for the car ride to go pick up Pam from the train. He’s getting a handle on when we go for “a walk” and when we go to get his “business done.”

He still “speaks” to strangers, even when we are on walks. Not good at 7 am! I’m not sure how to go about getting him to NOT bark – might be a hopeless task – but I need some kind of command to stop it. It’s not like he’s yapping constantly, just barks once or twice to announce his presence. I’ve tried to make him sit (he does) then put my hand on his chest and give him a “quiet” or “no barking” command. Buck understood the “no barking” command, but it’s been years since he ever really spoke. I don’t think we was trained on a choke chain, because the normal tug on the leash doesn’t seem to faze him. (He’s not on a choke chain, but I might try using it for a couple weeks to see if I can do something about the barking.)

I think Pam is feeling a tad slighted because Max has really taken to me. He’s been a constant companion to me, and I’ve really needed it. When I’m emotional, he’s there for me. When I give him a hug, he returns it, snuggling into my arms, raising his paw to me, banging his head into my chest. It’s very heartwarming. He’s just a great guy.

I have had such a tough time dealing with Buck’s loss. I feel so guilty – and the guilt keeps changing. I hate myself for being the one that made the decision to end his life, even though his last few days were so obviously painful for him. What right do I have to be playing god with my best friend? And I’ve been doing so much reading lately, I realize that maybe Buck was in pain longer than I want to admit, and maybe I was being cruel by not doing something earlier. It’s easy to say I should just let it go, and believe me, I wish I could just “let it go” but I can’t – it torments me…

Anyway – Max is doing great! He’s a real playful guy and Pam and I had a game of catch with him today. He’s fun and energetic. Tomorrow we’re off to the big off leash park, to see how he does. He’s recovered from his surgery, so I think a nice walk in the park with some other dogs will be good for him. We’ll keep an eye on him to make sure he doesn’t over do it!

Talk to you soon,

Maurice