Team Max

Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides 2025/2026

In memory of a spectacular dog

Max was part of the inspiration to start the walk in Port Perry   He participated in the walk from day one until he crossed the rainbow bridge April 17 2026.  Max was born in Ecuador on May 25, 2012 and we got him as a rescue October 14, 2013.   I can't imagine why anyone would give Max up.  We were so lucky to have found him.  His original name was Roki but he quickly adapted to Deborah’s Max !   Max gave us 4,569 memorable days.  12 years, 6 months and 4 days.   Max was the best golden we've ever had and the one that lasted the longest. Max passed the evaluation to be a therapy dog for St. John's ambulance in Markham and then for Therapeutic Paws of Canada team here in Port Perry.  We visited hospitals, schools, residences and hospices and received the mayor's award for his work as a therapy dog in Port Perry.   Max was loved by many people. Max taught us how to chill out and not get stressed out.  Max loved to swim and dock dive.  Max was a constant companion by our side to the point of there being no privacy.   We will miss the washroom door swinging open unexpectedly as he come looking for us.   Max loved our daughters and their families (our grandchildren).  He greeted everyone with so much enthusiasm. He was a regular at the Old Flame and he loved the attention.  We made a lot of new friends through Max.  A loyal companion.  A testament to your breed.  You leave big shoes to fill for the next dog and a huge hole in our hearts and lives.  You insisted that you go everywhere the F150 went, it was your truck !  The stares you gave us when your 5 o'clock feeding came around though it took you a week to adjust to daylight saving.  Your countless trips to the Old Flame.  How many friends we made simply by you being there !  You were one of the drivers for the creation of the Port Perry Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides and our membership in Golden Rescue.  Max taught us so much and forgave so much.  Always a happy dog.    We will miss  Max terribly. 


Independence Restored. Lives Transformed. 

This is what your support can do. Every donation to the Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides gives Canadians with disabilities a life-changing Dog Guide—completely free—helping them navigate the world with confidence, freedom, and independence.

From guiding their handlers through everyday life to providing critical assistance when it matters most, Dog Guides transform challenges into possibilities. Your contribution powers training, support, and matches that turn lives around—one Dog Guide at a time.

Join me. Donate today. Be the reason independence is restored and lives are transformed.

Thank you to our Sponsors

$100

Artie

In memory of Max 🐾❤️

$60

Maria Lorenzoni

In recognition of a fine service dog and loving companion to the Finotti family

$25

Ugo Finotti

$25

Ivo Finotti