Max the Miracle Dog has been diagnosed with a brain tumour, his owner has confirmed.
Springer spaniel Max, 14, has supported more than 10,000 people through meet-and-greets, charity walks, appearances and school visits in his fundraising efforts.
Max first rose to fame after turning owner Kerry Irving’s life around after a traffic collision left him with chronic pain and unable to walk.
A year later they both summited Ben Nevis overcoming physical and mental obstacles along the way.
Last year Max was awarded an animal OBE for giving support and comfort to thousands of people worldwide as a virtual therapy dog.
The PDSA Order of Merit was awarded to the dog who helped raise more than £370,000 for charities and supported people through the COVID-19 pandemic with its social media updates.
Issuing a statement to his social media followers yesterday morning, Kerry Irving, from Keswick, posted: “We’ve always said when it comes to our dogs their health and wellbeing is paramount and we want to be honest with you all at this difficult time. Max had another major vestibular attack last night and has been taken to the emergency vets.
“He’s home now and very sleepy. Our very special boy has been diagnosed with a brain tumour and whilst some medication may help his condition, at his age we won’t be looking at any invasive procedures nor will we prolong any suffering on his part.
“Please we ask we need time to come to terms with this heartbreaking and devastating news, my boy is over fourteen and a half and we know what the final outcome will bring. We would ask you please do not private message us, we will let you know how things progress from this page.”
In a statement posted last night, Kerry said: “Thank you all so much for all your love and comments. Max has eaten tonight, although his legs are very wobbly, his tail is still wagging. He’s staying with me in the van so I can monitor him 24/7. So much love in this world for this boy.”
