If you have come to our Saturday Community Breakfasts either before or since COVID, you will likely remember seeing Samantha Ryan with her great canine companion, Maxmilian. He was a great dog, trained to voice and even hand signal commands, very gentle and loving. He passed away unexpectedly not long ago. Samantha shares:
Not only was Maxmilian my registered service companion, but he was a certified (working) therapy dog. Years ago, we worked with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s patients. We loved visiting shut-ins (from church).
For the last five years, Max was certified to work with special needs children. We visited with Santana High School, and interreacted with students who were on the autism spectrum and those with Down’s Syndrome.
In 2014, Maxmilian was nominated and received recognition as an official ambassador for the United States Marine Corps (USMC). We participated in presenting a monthly program at the Veterans’ Museum in Balboa Park. The presentation was on “The History of War Dogs.” We interacted with veterans, the public, and tourists to San Diego.
In eight years, Max brought much happiness and joy to so many. His gentle, loving spirit calmed so many. Truly, a special boy and a gift from God.
