MURPHY RETIRES

Since 1996, when Murphy was two years old, he began the job of being a Visiting Dog. He got his CGC (canine good citizen) title and that qualified him to be a Visiting Dog. He has been visiting Golden Years Homestead for the entire time. He has made many friends, both dog-wise and people-wise. He has one lady that always sings: How Much is That Doggie in the Window, to him. There was another lady who kept dog treats in her bedside table, just for him. She said he was her dog and we were just taking care of him for her.

Another thing that Murphy did as a Visiting Dog was to visit my classroom and help kids read. He would sit and let kids read to him all day. He loved the attention, and maybe the stories, too!

He also came to special events, like the annual sleepover for kids who earned enough points in Accelerated Reading. He really loved the attention he got when he came for a visit. As of today, Murphy is officially retired from these jobs. He is having more trouble getting up from sitting positions. He has trouble walking long distances. He decided (along with his parents) that he should finally retire from this job. Now, that doesn't mean that once in a while he won't visit his friends again. But, for now he is retired. As you see in the picture below though, he is always looking for something else to do as he catches up on his reading!!!

LUCY MARIE 3/96 TO 7/08

It is a sad day at our house. Murphy's best friend for all his life died yesterday. You may have seen her picture on Murphy's 12th birthday blog. She was four months older than Murphy. They had learned to walk with leashes together as Sarah and I would take them for two-mile walks every afternoon. People all over town knew them.

They had matching scarves and would greet people as we walked all over town. Each day we would take them to the neighbor's big yard to play. Lucy was the best frisbee player. She would catch it in mid air. Murphy always let her have it. He was more interested in chewing it than catching it.

We always called Lucy...Lucy Lover because that is exactly what she was. She would come up to you as you sat watching tv and push your hand up to pet her. She would want to crawl up on your lap if you would let her. She was always such a lady. She would prance as they walked. Murphy was the bold one wanting to be out front on the walks, but Lucy would quietly walk behind just taking her dainty time. We are so thankful we had Lucy in our lives and that she was Murphy's best girl. They were the perfect example of what a couple should be. They each knew the other's strengths and weaknesses. They could play together for hours or just sit side by side and be quiet. I really believe that God gave us dogs so we would understand unconditional love.

WE LOVE YOU, LUCY!!!

MURPHY TURNS 12

On Monday Murphy had a birthday! He is now 12 years old. He is such a handsome dog, even in his old age. He is a certified Visiting Dog and has several titles. His main one is the CD title. For that he had to quailify in three competitions. In his last competition he received first place. He now says he just wants to be a dog!!

His best friend (and girlfriend), is Lucy. She is a little older than Murphy, but he doesn't mind that. Lucy and Murphy have been together all their lives. They used to take long walks with us, but not any more. Lucy is a lover and always wants to be petted. Murphy adores her and when she asks for one of his treats, he usually gives it to her gladly.
For his birthday, he brought treats to Lucy's house and they had a small party. When you are a dog and turn 12, parties aren't what they used to be. Still, no matter what they do...a little playing or just sleeping in the sun, they are glad to be together.

Happy Birthday, Murphy! And we wish you MANY more!!!!!

.