Maty, Bend’s inspiring three-legged pooch, dies at 15

Central Oregon’s canine ambassador has died. Fifteen-year-old Maty was a three-legged dog loved by many throughout the community.

The Australian shepherd mix was brought to the Humane Society of Central Oregon in Bend after being abandoned at three weeks old. As a puppy, Maty contracted parvo virus and developed a staph infection. To save her life, she had to have her leg amputated when she was eight weeks old.

The Humane Society’s community outreach manager, Lynne Ouchida, said her dog was wrongly diagnosed, but added that losing her leg led Maty to live a unique and remarkable life.

“Her gift of giving back and inspiring people is what I think Maty’s life was all about,” Ouchida said Thursday, the day after Maty’s passing. “That physical disability is what allowed her to champion the cause for those with challenges”

Maty became the first three-legged canine to compete as a high-flying disc dog at the Skyhoundz World Championships. She also served as a therapy dog and a Humane Society ambassador.

Ouchida said Maty inspired people to give disabled pets a chance and even became a role model for children with disabilities.

“She helps heal people’s hearts in times of need,” Ouchida said.

The public quickly took notice of the sweet dog with the special tale, and Maty got her share of media attention.

“It’s hard to reflect back on all the books, magazines, TV shows that Maty’s been in,” Ouchida said.

As Maty got older, Ouchida created a “bucket list” for her dog. From flying over Bend to go-carting to meeting chimps, Maty was able to check many items off the list.

“For a little three-legged dog, she lived a long life of 15 1/2 years with amazing experiences,” Ouchida said.

In her final years, Maty was fighting cancer, among other illnesses. She spent her last day at the dog park, before she died Wednesday night.

“The Humane Society, where she was brought in at three weeks of age, is where she ended her life,” Ouchida said.

Maty’s story will never be forgotten by the many people whose lives she touched.

To make a donation in memory of Maty, Ouchida asks that donations be made to the Humane Society of Central Oregon, where Maty championed the cause for shelter animals and other animals in need.

To donate, go to http://www.hsco.org/donate