Max the Miracle Dog died yesterday, sparking a huge outpouring of grief around the world.
Last week it was confirmed that springer spaniel Max, 14, had been diagnosed with a brain tumour.
The popular dog supported more than 10,000 people through meet-and-greets, charity walks, appearances and school visits in his fundraising efforts. He was awarded the animal equivalent of an OBE and raised more than £370,000 for charities and supported people through the COVID-19 pandemic with social media updates.
A statue of Max was erected in Hope Park.
This morning, his owner Kerry Irving posted on Facebook: “I want to thank each and everyone of you all for the kindness and support shown due to the passing of Max.
“We sat on our church bench and I just talked to him. It was just the right thing to do and it gave us all such inner strength to get through his last day with us.
“We then continued with his tour of his favourite places. Breakfast of sausages, bacon and black pudding in Grasmere where he sat and watched robins feeding outside.
“A walk at Thirlmere with many sticks being chewed. A short drive to Stable Hills to wash his paws then down to the Isthmus another of his favourite places for a little drink and paw wash.
“Later, Max walked into Manesty Woods, I sat under the old oak trees, Max lay across my knees, stick in his mouth, he looked at me and his eyes spoke that it was time.
“We sat in silence for some, Paddy Harry by his side.
“We watched and listened to the sounds of the woods. It was time. Our words were spoken, Harry licked his face, and Paddy stood by my side watching. I felt such an inner strength it was the most beautiful special time.
“Max went to sleep, it was so calming, he was at peace and so are we. It was the send off he so rightly deserved. A perfect day for the most perfect companion.”
