Maxi was found living rough by the A66 in Middlesbrough, cold, alone, and running out of time.
After weeks of searching and a huge community effort, she was finally brought to safety. That rescue didn’t just save Maxi, it sparked a movement.
Her story inspired Jane and Michelle to help more dogs like her. What started as a one-off rescue quickly became Maxi’s Mates: a safe place for strays with nowhere else to go. Today, Maxi’s memory lives on in every tail wag, every kennel built, and every adoption that follows. We’re here because of her, and for the ones still waiting.
Maxi, a 3-year-old Mastiff cross, was first spotted living near the A66 in Middlesbrough. Locals saw her sleeping in the freezing cold, seeking shelter in bushes, and surviving on scraps and rabbits in the Berwick Hills and Longlands area.
Jane Galliford began tracking Maxi’s movements after repeated sightings. She monitored her progress, noting her struggle to survive.
Maxi was seen again, still living alone. Jane started a Facebook group to raise awareness and pressured the council to put down a humane trap to capture her safely.
Jane and Michelle began working together, leaving food, water, and blankets to gain Maxi’s trust. They worked on opposite ends of her territory to guide her toward a safer area for the trap, away from the busy slip road.
Maxi was finally caught the first day the trap was set. She was rescued and taken to a kennel space provided by Save Our Strays.
Maxi remained shut down, unresponsive to human interaction. No visitors were allowed initially.
Maxi was reunited with Jane. She recognised her within minutes, showing affection and excitement. Jane was then permitted to visit her weekly.
Maxi continued to blossom, gaining confidence and enjoying human company once again.
Maxi was officially adopted into her forever home. She joined a loving family who understood her unique journey and provided her with a safe and happy life. Jane continued to stay in touch and visit her in her forever home.
Waterfall Kennels announced it was closing from 1/4/15. We campaigned and were granted an extension to November 2015 to give us time to find an alternative premises
Jane and Michelle officially started Maxi's Mates on 9/10/2012, named in honour of Maxi’s incredible journey.
Maxi’s Mates became a registered charity in 2015 and opened at Carlin Howe Farm in Dunsdale in January 2016, starting with 12 kennels and providing a safe haven for abandoned and stray dogs. The rescue continues its mission to give dogs like Maxi a second chance at a loving home.
