Heartbroken Dog Swims Over 100 km to Confront Owner Who Abandoned Him
By U.S. Animal News Staff | Pittsburgh, PA | October 16, 2025
A heartbreaking yet astonishing story has gone viral across the United States after a retriever named Max swam and wandered more than
According to authorities, Max’s owner, Santiago Martinez, left the dog at a rural gas station during a trip earlier this month. Believed to be confused and devastated, the loyal retriever began a nine-day journey across rivers and rough terrain to find his way back to his former home.
When Martinez opened the door and saw Max, he reportedly smiled in disbelief — but the reunion turned violent. The dog lunged forward and bit Martinez’s arm, sending him to the hospital for treatment.
Animal behavior experts say the reaction likely came from emotional trauma and betrayal, not aggression. “Dogs form deep emotional attachments to their owners. Being abandoned can cause extreme stress and confusion,”
The story has ignited massive discussion online, with millions of Americans expressing sympathy for the dog. “He didn’t bite out of hate — he bit out of heartbreak,”
Martinez later admitted regret for his actions, saying he “never realized how deeply” his dog felt. Max has since been adopted by another family who promised to give him
Animal welfare groups are using the story as a powerful reminder: adopting a pet means lifelong responsibility — not a choice of convenience.
Bills Rookie Faces Lawsuit from Agent That Could Distract Him Ahead of Week 1

The Buffalo Bills entered the offseason looking to upgrade their defensive front, but an unexpected storyline is now developing off the field. A rookie defensive end, acquired via trade, is facing legal turbulence before his first NFL snap.
According to filings, his former agent has sued over unpaid commission fees tied to his rookie contract. The dispute focuses on a 10 percent payment standard under NFLPA rules, which the player has reportedly refused to honor.
Such lawsuits often hinge on representation details — whether introductions, training support, or marketing services were fulfilled. For a first-year player trying to settle into the league, being dragged into court can be a major distraction.
That rookie is Landon Jackson, a defensive end from Arkansas acquired in a trade with the Bears. At 6’7”, he brings length and explosiveness off the edge, a skill set Buffalo targeted to strengthen its pass-rush rotation.
The lawsuit alleges Jackson terminated representation after signing, disputing obligations owed. Legal experts suggest arbitration may be likely, but even the specter of litigation risks clouding his early relationship with teammates and coaches.
For the Bills, timing is critical. Integrating Jackson into a deep defensive line rotation requires focus and consistency. Off-field noise threatens to pull attention away from building chemistry with veterans like Von Miller and Greg Rousseau.
Management has not commented publicly, but insiders note Buffalo is wary of distractions. A lawsuit doesn’t prevent him from playing, yet perception matters in a market with championship aspirations and a demanding fan base.
Ultimately, the question is whether Jackson can tune out the headlines. His physical tools suggest impact potential, but navigating both football and legal battles will define his start in Buffalo — on and off the field.