Murphy & Emily

A Package Deal

Murphy is more than a companion. Some might argue Murphy is more than a dog - he’s a dog who loves his job and who can read the room.

For a rescue, Murphy has proven to be an astonishing mix of the best of each part of his mutt make up. He has the keen obedience of an Australian Cattle, the intelligence of a German Shepherd, the playful spirit of a Siberian Husky, and the mellow calm of a Great Pyrenees. He accompanies Emily’s care work like a professional, lying quietly nearby until his attention is invited in.

Most special about Murphy is his ability to reach through cognitive changes to the personality at the core, always becoming a fast and gentle friend to those who might not remember his name, but do recognize the emotional safety in his four-legged friendship.

Murphy is greeted with love by residential staffs, who welcome his visits. He seems to know just how to adjust his connection to each human, according to need. It’s really hard to put Murphy into words, but the words that say it best are true companion.

“a perfect companion …”

My husband, Darrell, loved animals and we were never without a pet for nearly 47 years. After having lost our last four-legged friend during Darrell’s illness, our household just didn't feel the same. I was conflicted because our pets had brought us both so much happiness. However, my caregiving tasks precluded caring for another one. Then Murphy came into our life. And, yes, although he IS a dog, his gentle compassionate nature is human-like. He is smart and well-behaved. Murphy was a huge comfort and such a tender companion for Darrell - who would light up as Murphy came through the door. As it became more difficult to find things that would give Darrell true joy, Murphy had such a calming presence and was a real gift to both of us.”

— Lee Micken, client

My mom has been a resident of an assisted living facility and eventually a memory care space. Her joy at seeing Murphy, “the big, square-headed dog” is something that has stayed with her. Murphy is very gentle and approachable for my mom, who is blind. He’s appropriately engaged for some petting and receives treats in a human-like manner. I believe he is good company and a fun source of topics to discuss with his care provider, Emily - who my family also appreciates. Once Murphy has “made his manners” so to speak, he lies down and relaxes in for a good nap. I feel like his simple presence can be a calming/relaxing force. Knowing my mom’s long-term love of dogs, he provides a great deal of comfort to my family - knowing she has a four-footed friend.

— Craig Lee, client

Murphy, a large gray-speckled dog, has been an excellent addition to my handicapped son’s care system. He has become an important care management partner with Emily’s care services. Murphy introduces himself initially by simply coming over to meet anyone new in the room. He is not intrusive, never barks and usually waits for an invitation to greet and meet a new person. A pat on the head or a scratch of his ears is enough for an introduction. After his greeting is acknowledged, he then decides that a person is alright and will now be a new “friend”. However, if someone wants more dog attention, he will certainly accommodate the request or cautiously accept an offered treat. Murphy’s presence and attention provide my son, Steve, with a unique opportunity to relate to “Man’s Best Friend”. He has not had that privilege since he was a young person in our family household many years ago. I have never experienced a dog personality as good as Murphy’s. He is a perfect companion for our son - who looks forward to Murphy’s multi-hour visits. A special place in Steve’s room is reserved only for Murphy.

—Jim Smolik, client