Meet Max Garrison.
They say a dog’s love is unconditional — but for Max Garrison, the world hasn’t always returned the favor.
Max is 9 years young, weighs about 50 pounds, and is fully grown. Without a DNA test we cannot confirm his breed, though his records list him as a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever / Terrier mix. Based on his appearance, we also suspect he may have some shepherd in him. Whatever his mix may be, what truly defines Max is his gentle, loyal heart.
Eight years ago, Max left the shelter as a bouncy puppy, heading toward what everyone believed would be his happily ever after. But life had other plans. Last year, he was found as a stray — thin, lost, and completely alone. Somewhere along the way, the puppy who was promised forever became a senior dog with no one searching for him.
A kind foster stepped in and gave Max stability for nine months, and he absolutely thrived in a home environment. He proved himself to be crate trained, potty trained, nondestructive, and quiet when left alone. He lived well with other dogs, enjoyed walks, and was happiest when he had a ball or toy in his mouth.
Unfortunately, his foster placement came to an end due to the presence of cats and chickens in the home, which are simply too tempting for him. For everyone’s safety, he was brought back to the shelter. Shortly after, he was adopted and finally felt the warmth of belonging again — only to be heartbreakingly returned due to a family allergy.
Max has now been back at the shelter for quite some time. Senior dogs struggle deeply in kennel environments, especially those who have already known the comfort of a home. The longer he waits, the more urgent his situation becomes in an overcrowded facility.
Through it all, Max remains the best boy. He is gentle, affectionate, and deeply devoted to the people who care for him. He is a wonderful snuggler, a quiet companion, and happiest when he is included.
And then there is The Ball.
Max is rarely seen without his beloved “emotional support ball.” It is his security blanket and constant companion. Shelter staff make sure it stays in his kennel every night so he has something familiar to hold onto. It brings him comfort in a place that offers so little of it.
Max would do best in a home without cats or chickens. He can live happily with other dogs, though he may guard high-value toys at times, so thoughtful management is important. What he truly wants is a peaceful home where he can enjoy walks, playtime, and the comfort of knowing he is finally safe.
Max doesn’t ask for much. Just a soft bed. A few head scratches. The squeak of his favorite toy. A home where “forever” truly means forever.
The shelter Max is in is severely overcrowded, and senior dogs like him are among the most vulnerable. He deserves more than a kennel. He deserves stability, love, and the chance to spend his golden years feeling secure.
Health:
Max is neutered, microchipped, up to date on vaccinations, heartworm negative, and on monthly prevention. He is healthy and ready to finally settle into the life he was always meant to have.
Information:
All of our dogs, including Max, are currently located in Texas and will be transported to adopters once adoption is finalized. Transportation is included in the adoption fee. Breed labels are educated guesses — we encourage adopters to focus on temperament, compatibility, and lifelong commitment rather than breed alone.
MA License #479
MURPHY (LOCAL)
Doberman Pinscher
🇺🇸
Elgin, Texas
male, large, young
Doberman Pinscher
Elgin, Texas
