It was March of 2007 when we decided we needed a “keeper dog” at our house. After raising and training a PAWs Puppy for 17 months, we knew it was time to add a dog of our own to the family. I made many “puppy visits” to find just the right fit pup for us. I had my eye on a darker, smaller Golden, but a larger guy (biggest in the litter) with a blue collar kept returning to my side/lap/etc…over and over again. So, that was that…..Murphy picked us as his family!
From the start, he was so smart and loved to learn. He was gentle, laid back, and so eager to please. He had the perfect temperament for visiting and hanging out in my second-grade classroom. He was our gentle giant….carrying 110-115 pounds his whole adult life and tall enough to put his muzzle on the table and check out “dinner”. His size could be intimidating which wasn’t always a bad thing…especially when walking him alone at night! He loved “stuffies”, peanut butter, playing fetch, sharing snacks, people/kids, other dog friends, car rides, Beach days, “guarding the yard”, going to the trails, and just living the Golden Life! Each of our family members had a special bond with his gentle spirit! He was such a good listener and shared unconditional love with all who knew him. He was the best “neighborhood dog”…always trotting over for a visit with all who passed by!
It’s been over 4 months since we made the heart-wrenching decision to say goodbye and I finally feel able to write this! June 19 was by far one of the most difficult days for our family! Our strong, beautiful 12 1/2-year-old Murphy had been failing for a few days….no appetite, struggling to go outside for breaks, and just not feeling well. I tearfully contacted Heaven at Home. I cannot express how wonderful this Hospice for pets was for our family! When Dr. Tay arrived she explained that she felt our boy was full of Lymphoma. After explaining our options to us, we made the hard decision for a compassionate ending. We could not have asked for a more peaceful passing for our Murphy. He was in his favorite place surrounded by his “people” and left us in quiet dignity. We are so grateful that Heaven At Home was an option and will share our experience with any pet owners facing this hard decision.