10/23/25 AWESOME ADOPTION ALERT! From the foster and forever momma: Each dog comes wrapped in a story — mostly sad ones.
Maxine came wrapped in sadness, infections, chains, and silence.
When I first saw her, she was tied to a six-foot chain on a patio OUTSIDE — completely still. For a second, I thought she was dead. She didn’t even lift her head when I approached.
The people surrendering her didn’t even know how old she was — “somewhere between eight and ten.”
She’d given up, resigned to her existence. She had a massive tumor from her abdomen down into one of her back legs, infected ears, cloudy eyes, and back legs too weak to stand. She wasn’t spayed. She wasn’t cared for. She was just surviving.
She wasn’t even supposed to be our foster. But like all the best things in life, she had other plans. We were just supposed to get her through surgery, clean her up, and send her on to her forever home.
Years ago, we lost our soul dog — the kind that wrecks you in the best and worst ways. Fostering became our therapy, our way to love again without replacing what we lost. Dozens of AMAZING bulldogs have passed through our home since then. We loved them all. But we never “failed.” None ever felt like the missing piece.
Until Maxine Venus.
This complicated, stubborn, hilarious little tank bulldozed her way right through our defenses. She has a way of mean-mugging you that shoots straight through your heart. After rehab, surgeries, meds, and rest, she found her spark — and decided to love loud and proud. Then came the pool obsession that nearly gave us heart attacks. We adjusted, built safety systems, and she thrived. The pool became her physical therapy and her favorite rebellion all in one.
Somewhere between the vet visits, belly rubs, laughter, four-letter words, swimming and snuggles, she stopped being “the foster.” She became ours.
Now she runs the house like she owns it — part comedian, part chaos, all heart. Keeper of tennis balls. Destroyer of pool floats and water hoses. Rain catcher. Shawn’s self-appointed boss. And Mom’s most beautiful, precious angel.
She’s wonderful with her brother Mike (who is also a senior), and we honestly can’t imagine life without her.
Yes, she has cancer. But she also has joy, mischief, and a forever home that adores her. She’s a senior — the kind of dog people pass by. But I wouldn’t trade her for all the bulldogs in the world. We are the lucky ones that Maxine chose us.
So here it is — the official word:
We failed. Gloriously.
Senior dogs are magic.
Maxine Venus is home. ❤️
— Shawn, Kayle & Mike
@ The Bulldog Bungalow
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INTRODUCTION: A few of our volunteers spent some time ringing out onions (read: crying their eyes out).
We received a call about a senior Bulldog in desperate need of rescue. She was living outside and had not had medical care “in years.”
Her name is Maxine Venus, and her story is one that has hit our hearts hard.
Maxine Venus is somewhere between 8 and 10 years old, though no one really knows for sure. She’s spent her life being passed around between family members, and most recently, she was kept outside on a 6-foot chain, living on a patio with a doghouse and a heat lamp. Her owners experienced lifestyle changes that left them unable to care for her anymore.
When we arrived, Maxine Venus did not react to our volunteer. It was heartbreaking. She seemed to be just existing.
At first glance, she doesn’t look like she’s in bad shape—she’s not skinny and hasn’t been denied food. But when you sit with her, you begin to see the years of neglect. One volunteer commented that she looks defeated.
Her eyes are red and infected. She has a massive growth on her belly. Her skin is in rough shape and stinks to high heaven. Her body wobbles when she walks, likely from atrophy caused by being confined to a 6-foot chain on a porch.
We don’t know how long she was forced to live outside ~ we were just told it had been “a while.” When her collar was removed, it left a clear indentation in her fur—a quiet but heartbreaking reminder of her confinement.
We were told Maxine Venus had never had puppies, but her body looks as if she has. When we asked if there was anything special we needed to know about her, they all looked at each other and said, “She really likes balls.”
And yet, despite all she’s endured, Maxine Venus hasn’t given up on life.
She still believes in people, and she still believes in love. When you give her affection, her little tail wags and wags, and it’s impossible not to smile. Even though she’s a little rickety and unsteady on her feet, she’s still present, playful, and full of life. When she arrived at her foster home, she wiggled, got a little goofy, and even kicked up some grass as if to say, “I’m here, and I’m ready!”
Maxine Venus is now safe with Lone Star Bulldog Club Rescue. Her chances of finding an adoptive home are slim—she’s an older Bulldog with significant health issues (that we will address) and years of neglect behind her. But we’re committed to giving Maxine Venus the best care possible, finding her a soft place to thrive, and helping her live the rest of her life knowing love, comfort, and dignity.
Maxine Venus may have endured years of pressure, but we believe that pressure makes diamonds—and Maxine Venus is a priceless gem.
Because Maxine Venus matters.
We don’t cherry-pick the dogs we take in. If we have the space and resources, we do our absolute best to take the ones who need us the most.
And Maxine Venus needs us all.
Welcome to your new chapter, Maxine Venus. We’ve got you now.
2/7/25 UPDATE: Queen of the peanut butter spa treatment!
Miss Maxine Venus is getting the royal treatment around here—medicated baths, peanut butter therapy, and all the love she can handle. Since her special shampoo has to sit for 10 minutes before rinsing, we’ve come up with a genius plan: a peanut butter buffet on the side of the tub! And let me tell you, Maxine Venus is fully on board with this arrangement. Just look at that adorable, peanut-butter-loving face!
This sweet girl has been through so much, but she’s still full of wiggles and love. Later this month, she’ll be undergoing surgery to remove the cancer that runs from her mammary gland down to her leg. Until then, we’re making sure she’s as comfortable and spoiled as possible.
Send Maxine Venus some love as she continues her journey to healing!
2/26/25 UPDATE: Maxine Venus checking in—yes, the Couch Queen and Super Entertainer!
I’ve got one non-negotiable request for my next home: a big, comfy couch that’s all mine—my domain and my throne! I used to live on a chain outside, but now I’m lucky enough to have full use of the sofa, and I couldn’t be more thankful.
I might have a “mean old Maxine” mug on my face, but deep down, I’m a total sweetheart. I wait by the dryer, always on the lookout for a stray wool ball, and when one falls, I bust out my signature slow-fast shuffle walk to the yard.
And when I’m not busy entertaining, I love nothing more than sunbathing in the yard between my naps on the couch. I’m fully potty trained and get along wonderfully with the other dogs in the house—even if the cats do love to taunt me (I’m not a fan, but hey, they’re just too quick for me!).
This week, I’m gearing up for a big surgery to remove the large mass in my abdomen and some extra growths that have popped up recently. I know I have a long road to recovery ahead, but with all the love and support around me, I’m ready to take it on.
So, whether you say a prayer, send some positive vibes, light a candle, or raise a glass in my honor—every bit of love helps me on my journey to a healthier, happier life. A huge thank you to all the sharers, donors, and good vibe senders. I truly couldn’t do this without you!
2/28/25 UPDATE: Foster girl Maxine Venus post-surgery, demanding Diva
That’s right, folks. I, Maxine Venus, the bravest, most resilient, and definitely the most dramatic Bulldog, have made it through surgery like the absolute champion I am. And how am I rewarded for my strength? With a serious lack of snuggles. Unacceptable.
I have been fitted with this delightful donut (which, let’s be honest, only adds to my cuteness), and yet, my foster mom insists on doing things other than holding me 24/7. I have no choice but to cry until justice is served.
Proof of Tragic Situation: Please refer to a heartbreaking video of me politely crying for attention while my foster mom ignores my very real emotional needs. Truly shocking.
Additional Photo Evidence of My Humiliation: As seen in the photo, I have been forced to endure not only post-surgery recovery but also the complete and utter indignity of wearing a sprinkle-covered donut around my neck. Do I look adorable? Obviously. But is this the life I deserve? NO.
Please, if you have a heart, consider adopting me and providing the round-the-clock adoration I require. My perfect, squishable face and I are waiting.
3/14/25 UPDATE: We were hoping for better news, but Maxine’s pathology results weren’t what we wanted.
While she had surgery to remove the masses, the type of cancer she has (low-grade soft tissue sarcoma) tends to be stubborn and could return over time. But here’s the thing—Maxine doesn’t know that. And honestly, we’re not about to tell her.
Because Maxine is too busy living.
After spending her past life at the end of a six-foot chain, Maxine is now making up for lost time—with toys, friends, and a comfy sofa that she has claimed as her royal throne. She’s healing beautifully in her post-op pajamas (fashion icon behavior), and if you need proof that she’s feeling good, just watch her absolutely annihilate a dog bowl in the video. We could explain her technique, but it’s better if you just experience it.
Maxine is everything you’d expect from a classic Bulldog—equal parts aloof and affectionate, independent but so loving, stubborn yet hilarious, and an all-around joy to have in our home. She adores all people, gets along wonderfully with other dogs, and is simply a golden girl in every sense. We feel so lucky to have her in our lives, and whoever adopts her is in for something truly special.
If you’re looking for a dog who brings quality of love in its purest form, Maxine Venus is your girl.
3/20/25 UPDATE: She may have English genes, but today, Maxine Venus is all Irish—strong-willed, a little mischievous, and absolutely legendary. Don’t let the mean mug fool you; she’s just waiting for her pint… of kibble.
“May the road rise up to meet you, may the wind be always at your back”—and may your home be lucky enough to have a Bulldog like Maxine in it.
4/2/25 UPDATE: I recently found a photo that captures one of my very first memories laughing and playing with Duke, my dog and the very first Bulldog I ever loved. He was stubborn, snorty, hilarious, and loyal—the kind of dog who leaves a forever imprint.
Now, all these years later, I find myself watching my own granddaughter with Maxine Venus—Maxine quietly observing as she plays, walking her, and ending the day curled up on the sofa like they’ve known each other forever.
Maxine is a Bulldog through and through: full of that signature independence, quiet confidence, dry humor, and the kind of affection that sneaks up on you and wraps around your heart before you even know it’s there. She may give you a grumpy glance, but what she’s really offering is her whole heart. She’s more than just the perfect Bulldog—her love is mature and seasoned, like all the most precious things are. She doesn’t beg for the spotlight. She just is—steady, soulful, and a quiet kind of joy.
Maxine reminds me so much of Duke.
Maybe you’ve always loved Bulldogs from afar. Maybe one once found you and changed everything. However, your path started, if you know—you know. And maybe now, it’s your turn to come full circle—just like I did—and give a Bulldog like Maxine the forever she’s been waiting for.
4/15/25 UPDATE: We hear the Easter Bunny may call in sick, so foster girl Maxine Venus is prepping to step up… reluctantly.
She’s wearing the ears. She’s surrounded by eggs and toys. She’s fully committed to the aesthetic—even if she pretends she’s over it.
Don’t let the serious face fool you—Maxine is pure sweetness wrapped in Bulldog rolls. She’s the kind of girl who’ll steal your heart, your couch spot, and all the attention at the party.
Hop into her DMs if you’re ready for love, laughter, and a whole lot of Bulldog charm.
5/1/25 UPDATE: Maxine Venus doesn’t just play with balls—she curates them. Only the fuzzy, squeaky tennis balls from Hollywood Feed make the cut.
She gathers them with purpose. She arranges them with pride. Then she goes through each one and squeaks it—individually—to make sure it still meets quality standards.
Once her inspection is complete, she settles on top of her collection like a queen guarding the realm.
Some might say she’s a mother hen.
But let’s be honest—this is Maxine Venus.
If she’s anything, she’s the Mother of Dragons (and also Squeaky Balls).
7/4/25 UPDATE: Maxine Venus’s 4th of July address to the nation: As the sun rises on this great nation’s celebration, I—Maxine Venus—emerge from my sofa, draped in stars and dignity, to deliver this annual message of grace, grit, and good judgment.
Let’s get one thing straight: I’m not scared of your boom-pow nonsense. I’ve survived being chained in a yard, a mastectomy, and now I’m living with cancer and arthritis. You think a few backyard explosions are gonna shake me? Please.
But some of my Lone Star Bulldog Club Rescue family is scared.
Every year, dogs panic and run—and too many don’t make it back. So maybe skip the driveway war zone. You wouldn’t like it if me and all my friends showed up and barked at you all night.
Apply sunscreen like your dermatologist is watching. Drink water between cocktails—hydration is not un-American. Fireworks? Lovely at a distance. Unnecessary in your cul-de-sac. Don’t drink and drive. Be festive—not criminal.
God bless America, potato salad done correctly, and dogs with full bellies and safe homes. Freedom is cool. So is compassion. Party like you’ve got manners—and don’t make me come over there.
