Max

My story

Meet Max! A wise and wonderful twelve-year-old Poodle mix from Ayer, MA, whose heart is as soft as his charcoal-dusted black coat. Max is a medium-sized gentleman, weighing in at 40 pounds, and he’s got one soulful eye that sees straight into your heart—and probably your snack bag, too! Max is the definition of a devoted companion. His world revolves around his people, and he’s happiest when he’s close—whether it's trotting by your side on a peaceful walk, snoozing nearby while you work, or simply following you from room to room. Max isn’t just a velcro dog—he’s a full-on shadow with a heartbeat. Because Max forms deep bonds, he struggles when left alone. His separation anxiety is very real and not just a bit of whining. When his people leave, Max becomes stressed and unsettled. At first, he’ll pace and vocalize his concern with soft whining and barking. If left for longer stretches, this turns into digging or chewing at doors and crates in a determined effort to find his way back to his loved ones. He doesn’t mean harm—his heart just hurts when he’s not near his favorite human. This anxiety can also make Max reactive in certain situations. When feeling stressed or unsure, he may bark, growl, or charge at other dogs or unfamiliar people, especially if they approach him or his person too quickly. It’s his way of saying, “I’m scared and overwhelmed,” not “I’m aggressive.” Max is working on this through consistency, calm guidance, and plenty of reassurance. A quiet home with an experienced caregiver who understands reactivity and is comfortable using positive reinforcement will be key in helping him feel safe and confident. Max knows a long list of commands and thrives with structure, routine, and predictability. He’s neutered, microchipped, and up to date on vaccinations. He requires a low-fat diet to manage chronic pancreatitis and receives care for hypothyroidism. Max is seeking a home where he can be the one-and-only pet, without young children or a revolving door of visitors. If you’re someone who’s home often or can include Max in your daily routine, he’ll repay you with unwavering loyalty and affection! Could Max be the one to fill your life with quiet companionship and devoted love? Reach out to meet him at adopt@joyfulpets.com!

If you have any questions or would like to adopt Max, please reach out to the adoption group directly. PetSmart Charities does not facilitate the adoption process. Thank you.