Mischievous Maverick
July 12th, 2019 I fell in love with a chunky puppy I found on AKC Marketplace.
August 2nd we brought that puppy home and named him Maverick. ❤️
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October 7th, 2025 we got the worst news. Our Mav had cancer & the prognosis was not good.
October 12th around 11pm, he passed away with me by his side. 💔
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Our household is heartbroken. I am devastated. He was the bestest dog & my emotional support. My old man got me through some tough times. I’m so glad he picked Emmett that day in July, because we couldn’t have asked for a better dog to be part of our family. He grew up with Emmett & Chloe. Kept me sane during my pregnancy with Axel. He was the most patient dog when Axel started crawling & walking, because you better believe he was crawling all over Mav & using him as a point of balance.
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We spent the last 5 days treating him like a king. He got to ride in the front seat instead of a crate; we got cake pops every day; Josh was cooking him NY strip every night; peanut butter when it was time to go to bed; I kept the puppy from messing with him as much as possible; and the most hugs, kisses & cuddles that he would tolerate. I spent time laying on the concrete with him in the sun, laying with him in the house & sitting in the dog room when he didn’t want anything to do with anyone.
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I just know he is in my crowded little corner of Heaven, getting loved on by my brother, playing tug with Sammy (our childhood dog), chasing bunnies & eating all he could want. ❤️
#dogloss #goldenretrieversofinstagram #dogsarefamily #family #pet
Losing a beloved pet like Maverick leaves a deep emotional impact that resonates with many dog owners. It’s often said that dogs become cherished members of the family, providing comfort and unconditional love through life’s ups and downs. Maverick’s story highlights the importance of emotional support dogs, especially during challenging moments such as pregnancy and parenting. During his lifetime, Maverick wasn’t just a pet but a steadfast companion who patiently adapted to new family dynamics, like helping a crawling toddler find balance. This nurturing quality is common among Golden Retrievers, known for their gentle disposition and loyalty, making them excellent family dogs. The final days of Maverick were marked by extraordinary care and devotion, including special treats like cake pops and NY strip steak, and ensuring he felt loved and comfortable. Providing such quality end-of-life care is crucial in honoring a pet’s dignity and the strong bond they share with their humans. It’s also helpful for families coping with grief to preserve memories, whether through photos, journaling, or sharing stories like this, allowing the pet’s spirit to remain a comforting presence. Maverick’s peaceful passing, attended by his owner, underscores the profound connection between pets and their humans. Many find solace believing their pets enter a joyful afterlife, playing and resting surrounded by love. This sentiment is echoed in the community through heartfelt hashtags like #dogloss, which connect those experiencing similar grief. For anyone facing a cancer diagnosis in their pet, Maverick’s experience affirms the importance of early detection and compassionate care. Veterinary oncology has advanced significantly, offering treatment options that can extend and improve quality of life. Pet parents are encouraged to seek support, whether through veterinary advice, support groups, or resources dedicated to pet loss and healing. In remembering Maverick, this story not only honors his memory but also celebrates the special role dogs play in our emotional wellbeing and family life, underscoring why pets truly are family.
I’m so sorry for your loss 💔💔💔