Max - 2024 Purple Paw Award Recipient

Max is a 5 1/2 year old Lhasa APso who lives in Great Falls. He is a fluffy little guy with an adorable face, often seen with the tip of his tongue sticking out.

Max faithfully serves the Great Falls community as a certified therapy dog, bringing immense joy to everyone he visits. Max's owner, Debbie English, runs the pet therapy program for Benefis in Great Falls. Together, they visit several local retirement homes and rehabilitation centers, spreading happiness wherever they go, One resident at The Lodge Senior Living, who has lost her eyesight, particularly loves Max. He hops on her walker, and they stroll around the building together, lifting her spirits. Max has complete more than 100 therapy visits, providing support and comfort to countless people along the way. His gentle temperament and loving nature make him a wonderful companion, especially to those who need their spirits boosted the most.

In addition to his therapy work, Max is also quite the athlete. he is the fastest Lhasa Apso in the United States, having finished first in his breed for the Fast Coursing Ability Testing (Fast CAT) at the 2023 American Kennel Club Invitational in Orlando, Florida.

While the average top speed for his breed is 11 mph, Max can reach speeds of up to 19 mph. Max is also an elite trick performer according to the American Kennel Club (AKC) standards and is very talented in scent work.

Even with these impressive achievements, Max's greatest impact is the joy and comfort he brings to the lives of those in his community.