Memorable moments: The dog-flap dilemma

Every morning, I would head out early to my job as an English teacher, leaving Mack comfortably ensconced in the warmth of my bed. Our daily hand-over ritual was clockwork: around 9:00 AM, Liza would arrive, knock on the door, and belt out her signature summons: "Mack, Mack, Mack, Macketty Mack Mack!"

Usually, this triggered a joyful, high-speed sprint as Mack thundered down the stairs and burst through the dog flap for a blissful reunion. But one morning, the wind conspired against the routine and blew my bedroom door shut.

When Liza arrived and gave the call, Mack found himself a prisoner. He went from "Zen Master" to "Houdini in a panic" instantly, barking with a frantic intensity that could be heard down the street. Liza, hearing the desperation, immediately assumed the worst. Mack was injured. Mack was dying. Mack had somehow succumbed to the "sucker" appendix genes of the Myburgh line.

In a state of total maternal panic, she tried my mobile, but I was in the middle of a lesson with my phone switched off. Desperate times called for desperate measures. Liza decided the only way into the fortress was through the dog flap.

Now, Liza is not a large woman, but she isn't exactly "canine-proportioned" either. She dropped to her hands and knees and committed to the entry. She managed to get her head and shoulders through the portal before the laws of physics intervened. She was stuck—wedged firmly in the doorframe, unable to go forward and unwilling to go back.

It was at this exact moment that my housemate arrived home. He walked up the path to find a pair of legs and a bottom waving in the air, while the rest of Liza was inside the house, still gamely yelling, "Mack! Mack! Mack!" into the hallway. All the while, the "victim" continued his operatic barking from the safety of the upstairs bedroom.

It takes a special kind of person to prioritize a barking dog over the basic laws of physics and personal decorum. Liza didn't just want to save Mack; she was willing to become a permanent part of the house’s infrastructure to do it. My housemate’s arrival was the only thing that saved her from a very long morning of "Macketty Mack-ing" into the carpet. After that, we decided that a spare key was a much more "proportional" solution than Liza attempting to shrink herself to the size of a spaniel.

Memorable moments: The forensic envelope

Not long after Liza came into our lives—and into Mack’s—I returned home to find a mysterious envelope taped to my front door. It wasn’t a bill or a friendly "hello" card; it felt strangely weighted.

I opened it up, and two small pieces of plastic fell out into my palm. I turned them over, squinting at them, trying to identify which household object had met a violent end. Tucked inside was a handwritten note from Liza:

"I found these in Mack’s poo. I’m most concerned. What has he been eating?"

I stood there on the porch, staring at the plastic evidence of Mack’s internal transit system. It was a baptism by fire into our new co-parenting arrangement. Most people might start a relationship by sharing a bottle of wine or a nice meal; Liza and I started ours with a shared, high-stakes investigation into what, exactly, Mack had decided was an appetizer.

It was a clear signal that Liza wasn't just a casual observer in Mack’s life—she was a woman who didn't mind getting her hands dirty (literally) to ensure his well-being. Looking at those two pieces of plastic, I realized that if Mack could survive his own questionable diet, and I could survive the horror of receiving his "output" in an envelope, the three of us were going to get along just fine.

Memorable moments: The silky souvenir

Mack had ears that were, quite simply, a sensory delight. They were so incredibly silky that I used to spend ages just stroking them, marveling at the texture. One day, in a moment of dry, tongue-in-cheek humor, I turned to his co-owner, Liza, and made a suggestion.

"You know," I said, "when Mack eventually goes, I think I want to have his ears removed. I’ll turn them into a keyring so I can keep that silkiness with me forever."

I expected a laugh or a mock-shudder. Instead, Liza looked at me with a face of total, unwavering seriousness.

"Oh, good," she said. "I’ve been meaning to bring this up. I’m going to keep the rest of him and have him taxidermied. I want to put him right in the middle of my living room."

I stared at her in genuine horror. My "keyring" joke suddenly felt very small compared to the vision of a stuffed Mack standing guard over the coffee table. "Are you... are you being serious?" I stammered.

She held the gaze for a heartbeat longer, then a mischievous smile finally broke across her face. "Yes," she said, her eyes twinkling.

I never did get that keyring, and thankfully, Mack never ended up as a statue in the lounge. But that moment of wide-eyed horror remains one of my favorite memories of the absurdity that comes with loving a dog as much as we loved him.

Memorable moments: The ecstatic return

Every year, I’d travel back to South Africa for several weeks to visit family. During these trips, my dog, Mack, would stay with Liza, who shared "custody" of him with me. It was a perfect arrangement, but the separation always felt like a lifetime.

The absolute highlight of my return to Australia was the moment I walked through the door to be reunited with him. It was a scene of pure, unadulterated chaos.

There was frantic panting, heavy slobbering, and a series of high-pitched, desperate whines. There was uncontrolled jumping, a fair amount of spinning, and enough vigorous bum-shaking to power a small village. It was a display of emotional vulnerability that would have made a Zen master weep.

And honestly, once I calmed down and stopped licking his face, Mack seemed pretty excited to see me, too.

In loving memory of Mack (2004 - 2023)

Mackie passed away a couple of days ago, just two months shy of his remarkable 19th birthday.

It's hard to put into words what it meant to share so many years with such an extraordinary soul. 

The lessons Mack taught me are imprinted on my heart:

• His constant display of unconditional love, shared abundantly and wholeheartedly.
• The priceless bond of true companionship and heartfelt connection.
• His transparent emotions, ever evident in his joyful tail wags and earnest eyes.
• The simple warmth of snuggling close, or just resting his head on a knee, shoulder or comforting lap. 
• The wisdom in his intent listening, reminding me that not every silence needs filling.
•  His ability to be wholly present, savoring every sound and scent during our walks.
•  The immense exuberance he found in fun, playful pleasures, even if was simply chasing after a ball.
•  Just how high you can leap if you put your mind to it, especially if you’re chasing after a tantalising rodent.
•  The importance of having boundaries, especially if your space is invaded by an overly spirited yapper snapper !
•  The living embodiment of virtues like patience, adaptability, curiosity, wonder, loyalty, trust, enthusiasm, alertness, forgiveness, and countless others.

Mackie was ready to go but the void left by his absence is profound. I’ve been doing lots of walking around Waverton to help process my sadness and every path I take is suffused with memories of Mackie, sniffing at every bush and lifting his leg to mark his favourite spots. I’ve had some beautiful cries, and its been a much needed release.

A heartfelt thanks to those who had a particularly special connection with Mack and helped enrich his life: Ally, Liza, Jasper, Chris, Yogi, Srini, Xenia, Shushann, Sharon, Martin, Matt, Sue & Alex, Dani, Lizzy, Chrisel, Russell, Elna, Jilly.

Mack, until our paths intertwine once more. The anticipation of our reunion brings visions of jubilant tail wags, playful dances, and exuberant panting. No doubt, Mackie will show signs of excitement too 🙂

Rest in peace, dear Mackie

To Liza

We had a beautiful get together at The Botanica yesterday. So many memories to share and everyone was very loving and supportive. Shushann brought beautiful Anush who I have a special connection with and she settled at my feet the whole time, as if she knew I needed solace.  It was all so bitter sweet.  I kept looking at Mackie's chair, where he used to snuggle into his blanket and pervade the scene, and it was empty.  The staff at The Botanica were so crestfallen to hear about Mack. And Steve and Vula, too, who run the Waverton Grocer. For such a little thing, Mack featured so large in Waverton. His loss is  being felt by all the people who knew him and loved him.

The most support I'm getting is from people who've also lost doggie soul mates. Jane, who was there yesterday, lost 17 year old Harry last year. And Heather in South Africa lost 21 year old Sally a while ago too. They both spoke about the crushing emptiness and loss that they felt and still feel from time to time, enough still to bring them to tears.

I've been doing a lot of walking in Waverton as it helps to process and settle the grief. Every path I take is pervaded by the memory of Mack sniffing shrubs and cocking his leg every 10 metres or so. I've had some really strong cries on the walks, and it feels good to do it.

From Liza

• I can recall every photo you forwarded of Mack at Botanica, and it was very, very clear he loved beyond measure being there, being with you there, and being with you and Chris there. It was always so truly delightful to experience Mack's enjoyment of sniffing, caressing plants, marking his spots etc.
• I genuinely hope you do really well in processing your grief, and recalling happy times Graeme. Mack loved you very, very much and for sure loved his home with you; I adored every photo of him on HIS balcony when he was a heat seeking doggie. I'm not able to recall any thing much just now but, for me, there won't be a doggie companion, as special, ever. Mack is, was, remarkable in so many ways. I feel proud of him, and of my contribution to his life Graeme. Meeting him with Mum on my birthday was an amazing thing, and there has not been a day I have not loved Mackee since. 
• For Jasper and I there was not a day we didn't look forward to Mack's arrival.  I loved his enjoyment, as an old fella, of night walks, his sniffing the ground and air; for month's now that was early mornings and as soon as the sun set. 

From Chris

So, So Beautiful Graeme. Now that is friendship. That is love. And you shared him with us all. You had a little engine of joy there.  He is a fond memory in many peoples minds, but I somehow imagine that in the big scheme of things when little Mackee was choosing which  human, he chose you and he was a winner.

Dear Liza. Our precious little friend has gone, but what a friend he had in you. I must say I have never seen such a beautiful connection between a dog and a human than between dear little Mackee and you.  You made him feel so special. Thank you for sharing him with me for some enjoyable times. I will miss him too. Take care. Wishing you all the best. 

From Ally

Hey G, was just calling to say how sorry I was to hear about Mack. What a lovely tribute to him - totally had me in tears!! He was one of the most special little souls and he will live in our memory and hearts forever. I am so glad you got to spend so much time with him.  I truly hope you are okay.  Sending you a special hug and love 💙

From Shushann

Ohh dear Graeme just read your beautiful piece on Mack. It has brought floods of tears. Sending you blessings and love over this heartbreaking but unavoidable letting go of our beloved fur babies. Until you meet again. Somewhere over the rainbow🙏🏽🧡🌈

Oh my goodness the photos were stunning. They could be a book in themselves. They tell many wonderful stories.

From Yogi

Sorry to hear your sad news. Mackie Boy was an exceptional dog - what great mates you were!  He gave you so much joy, & vice versa. He lives on, forever young, in your blog. 

From Srini

This message was sent by Srini from a mountain hike shortly after Mack passed away. Amazingly, he had no knowledge that Mack had gone. It was one of those beautiful synchronicities and deeply comforted me.

Richard

Shirley

Facebook condolences

Final photos of dear Mack

He was ready to go and had been in some discomfort for a couple of days. He was extremely peaceful at the end. Liza was present at his passing.  Rest in peace, beloved, beautiful Mack.

A nice photo of Mackie taken by Liza

 

Mackie photos taken by Liza over past couple of years

There can be no doubt: Liza truly loves Mack with every ounce of her being.  He is very blessed to have her in his life and so am I.

Photos from Liza

 Liza sent me these wonderful photos of dear Mack.

Mack celebrating Liza's birthday with Jack Russell whisky!

 

Gift and card from Liza

 

A gorgeous photo from Liza

Greeting Mack on a Monday when Liza drops him off (12 pm)

The highlight of my day is being reunited with dear Mack.

Liza's top 6 fave photos of Mack that she's taken

How beautiful are these photos!

Mack attacked !!

 The email I sent to Liza says it all!!

Hi Liza

I took Mackie for his usual stroll at Brennan Park. He suddenly started to limp badly and I discovered a medium size ant attached to his rear, right foot (latched onto the rear pad)!!!  He was in obvious discomfort, so I carried him home. He lay on the bed and his leg was shaking, still in significant discomfort, and a bit sweaty.  I tried to call you and then to be safe, I took him straight to the vet in St Leonards.  By the time I got there, he was much better, not limping nearly as much.  I showed them the ant (yes I killed it as penance!) and they said if Mack had been bitten on the body, or head, they would have suggested a histomine injection but because a foot, no need. I brought him back and put his paw in iced water for a little while.  He now seems absolutely fine, no limping at all.  I tried to call to get your thoughts before heading to vet, but you were out and about.  The vet very kindly did not charge for the inspection and advice.

Anyway, just wanted to give you an update about our little champion.  Mackie is contentedly snoozing on the bed right now.

Cheers

Mack and Chris at The Botanica

A very special bond!!

Mack wins 3rd price at a local dog show

Liza was so delighted!  Well done, dear Mack.

Mack and Liza

The prize winner !

Mack, the Most Fabulous Senior Doggie !!

Hi there Graeme,

I wasn't planning on going down to Bradfield Bark (North Sydney Council dog event) today but a client I saw briefly this morning lives at Kirribilli so we went across with him and his HUGE Labrador.

MACK won The Most Fabulous Senior Dog! Yay to Little Handsome MACKee.

I really enjoyed being in the show ring and MACK behaved beautifully + performed each command to perfection! Needless to say I felt very proud of him. It was a funny thing to do, unplanned with a great result...

I know you don't like dog clothes but MACK was extremely popular in his Ralph Lauren POLO (must have been stopped by every second person, honestly, and paid compliments) + I'm pretty sure it swayed the judges.... I don't have any photos of us with the second and third prize winners but maybe the photos taken will be in the Mosman Daily, or on social media during the week. Not sure...

Meanwhile, here are some photos of dear MACK I took before the competition commenced, and a photo of MACK's certificate (already on our fridge!).

MACK & I left the event before my client and are completely exhausted. MACK must have sniffed 40-50 backsides and lifted his leg a couple of hundred times. He had a great time!

Dinner now for dear MACK and I'd say he'll be asleep for the evening by 7pm... great dreams of fresh air/blue skies/green grass + all those wonderful encounters with other canine's.

Bye for now, Liza

PS. I think I said many years ago MACK would have been wonderful to train as a pup-Jack Russell's really are amazing... we watched a flying JR at the event; a very young dog who seriously did fly through the air! MACK was watching intently, all the organised races...

My life with Liza & Jasper the past 9 weeks (Mack's account!)

6.00 am commence making noises to indicate attention to belly is required.

6.10 am as Liza’s unresponsive to verbal requests commence body rustling the bed clothes, to accompany before mentioned noises…

6.15 am give Liza some affection by plonking my wet nose on her cheek as she attempts to ignore me entirely…

6.20 am ah that’s more like it, Liza & I enjoy a wrestle. I win every morning as I’m quicker eating her hands than she is getting away from me

6.30 am downstairs to wake up ALL the dogs of Doohat Avenue. On my way around the horseshoe I let all the other canine’s know I’m up so every one should be…

6.45 am after barking at my mates, Amber (the Staffie), Hugo (the Beagle), Monty (the Border Collie) and Max (the PugxBeagle) I allow Liza to lead me back home for breakfast…

7.00 – 7.30 am I scoff down my food; Liza does make a good breakfast…

7.30 am – 3.30 pm Liza goes to work. I mostly go with her but on some days she leaves me to guard the entire block for about 2 hours. I quite like my set-up as my bed is lined in thick layers of wool & Liza covers me in my favourite blanket with FOX SPORTS on for me to watch…

4.00 – 4.30 pm I scoff down my dinner

4.30 – 5.30 pm Liza & I go for a walk to my favourite park. I do a lot of leg lifting & really enjoy watering the bushes, & flower beds… on the way home we say hello to siblings, Tinkerbell & Princess (Maltese Terriers) plus we stop for barking with Milo (PugxJack Russell) at his place…

5.30 – 6.30 pm Liza makes dinner for Jasper and herself. I never seem to get any of their food but maybe once a week Liza gives me tiny morsels. Liza is very strict with my diet; probably why Vet Peter says I’m in good shape…

6.30 – 8.00pm I like to spend time on Jasper’s lap after dinner. I need to show Liza she’s not always #1!

8.00 – 9.30pm I enjoy being in front of the heater as Liza potters, watches TV, or reads…
9.30 – 10.00pm it’s around this time Liza very kindly carries me downstairs (to save my joints) to do my evening poo…

10.00-11.00pm I’m always happy to cosy up in Liza’s bed. I’ve got a lovely grey and white polka dot robe I wrap myself in. I don’t need any extra warmth at the moment but come late June/July I’ll be under the cover with Liza, for sure.

PS  Thanks for this Liza!  It's wonderful.

Mack with Liza's mum

Liza's mum, Helle, has just passed away after a long battle with cancer.  She has been a huge part of Mack's life.  She was even with Liza in 2010 when she met Mack for the first time as he tried to run across the highway  

Liza took him to the hospital just the day before Helle passed.  As Liza said in her email to announce her mum's passing away ...

MACK was with me at the hospital yesterday; I held him up and Mum said "Hello Beautiful"... lovely it was.

Reading that really made me cry!!  Mack has blessed all our lives so much.  It's special beyond words that he could be there.