Pets

Max (Maximus) our starter-kid, arrived in our lives at 10 weeks old in October 2008. Purchased via trade me, we had only a photo with his brothers and sisters from which we selected him. He flew up to us from Gisborne and was the most adorable bundle of tiny fluff.  So adorable.

I grew up with dogs (birds, guinea pigs, mice, horses) and Francis with cats but despite that, we had NO IDEA what we were in for. Puppies are definitely a good test to see if you are ready to start a family! Despite the hard work, our little mutt grew up to be the best companion and truly part of the family. He's awesome.

What makes him even more special is that he shares Isla's birthday. He grudgingly accepted the kids into his world and now he is Isla's best bud. He's getting there with Lachy! We love him to bits, but one of the great things about having a dog has been seeing the kids with him - they've both adored him from very early on and seeing their caring nature and love for animals develop more because of him is rewarding.

One of Isla's first words was "waw-waw" (dog barking), and for about a year she called him "Mate" instead of Max. Lachy has already started saying his name and running around after him "Ba".

Even better than that, he provides a great amount of fun and hilarity in our family due to his slightly unhinged personality and just general dogginess - we all love you Maxi and thanks for putting up with us!