“A companion that turned his life around.”
In 2006, Kerry Irving experienced a life-altering traffic accident that left him with severe chronic pain and diagnosed with depression. However, in 2008, his life took a remarkable turn when he adopted Max, a spirited Springer Spaniel. Max’s companionship and unwavering support became a beacon of hope for Kerry, leading to a significant transformation in his life.
Max’s story gained global attention when Kerry started sharing their daily walks and adventures around the Lakes in Cumbria, UK, on social media. During the pandemic, their virtual escapades provided solace and comfort to hundreds of thousands of people worldwide, offering them a much-needed lifeline during the challenging times of lockdown.
Max’s impact reached even greater heights as he became known as the world’s virtual therapy dog. He made public appearances, visited schools, and fundraised around £300,000 for charities like PDSA. Max’s extraordinary journey even caught the attention of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, who met him at Kensington Palace. In recognition of his remarkable contributions, Max received the prestigious PDSA Order of Merit and was immortalized with a bronze statue in Hope Park, the Lake District.
Max’s story is a testament to the incredible power of the human-dog bond and the positive impact that dogs can have on our mental health and overall well-being. His legacy continues to inspire and bring comfort to people worldwide.