Mister Murphy THDD owned by Christine Witzler of Bowling Green, OH

Murphy is a 10-year-old Bichon Frise that Christine rescued when he was a year and a half old.

“You could tell at the first meeting that he was born to be a therapy dog,” she said. “He has been in cribs in hospitals with 1 year old babies, and he has cuddled a lady who was 106 years old. There is not a soul on earth who Murphy would not love.

 “He has brightened up the day for cancer patients, made the elderly feel less alone, comforted the sick and recovering patients, and listened to children during library reading programs. No matter when or where the visit occurs, Murphy is always looking forward to it.”

Murphy is a cancer survivor who went through a successful tumor removal. Christine said they value everyday with their special dog who is always happiest when getting to see his other therapy dog buddies and visiting at the next facility on the schedule.

 “I have been the luckiest person to have this loving bundle of joy in my life,” she said.

Murphy has earned the AKC Therapy Dog Distinguished (THDD) title for making more than 400 visits to help others. He is a member of the AKC Canine Partners program for all dogs, including rescues.