In a quiet park in Syracuse, New York, a weary senior dog lay beside a picnic table, his head resting on the pavement as if waiting for someone who’d never return. He didn’t bark or whine — he simply waited.
Next to him, taped to a post, was a handwritten note that told his story.
“I’m a good boy,” it read. “I’m about 17 years old. My name is Max. My owners can’t take care of me no more. Please help me!”
When local animal advocates heard about Max, their hearts broke. Volunteers from Cuse Pit Crew, a pit bull advocacy and rescue group, rushed to the scene alongside Syracuse Police and Dog Control officers.
“We know this is emotionally draining to look at,” Cuse Pit Crew wrote on Facebook. “Sweet Max was left tied to a picnic bench in Syracuse’s Schiller Park along with this note.”
The rescuers gently freed Max and rushed him to a local emergency vet for care. Though he was frail and underweight, he wagged his tail softly — as if he knew he was finally safe.
After his checkup, Max was transferred to HumaneCNY, where he could recover in peace.
There, volunteers made sure he had warm blankets, soft beds, and full meals — and Max quickly showed his gratitude with tail wags and sloppy kisses.
“He loves to run around,” his foster parent shared on Facebook. “His vision and hearing aren’t the best, but his nose works 110%! He can smell food or treats a mile away. He loves to go for walks and spend time with people.”
Now healthier and happier, Max is ready for the next chapter of his life — one filled with love, patience, and comfort.
“Max will need a home with someone who understands senior dogs with limited vision and hearing,” said Maureen Davison, HumaneCNY’s executive director. “He truly is a goofy boy who has a lot of love to give.”
After all he’s been through, Max still believes in people — and everyone who’s met him believes he’ll find his forever home soon.
If you’re interested in adopting Max, visit the HumaneCNY website for more details. To support dogs like Max, you can make a donation to HumaneCNY.
