22/06/2026
Nobody prepares you for the last firsts. 🐾
Nobody tells you that one day you’ll pick your dog up for the last time, or go for your last big adventure or play your last game.
Because when our dogs are young, we spend so much time looking forward.
Their first walk, first class and first birthday are all big milestones but somewhere along the way, without even realising it, life starts changing.
The walks get a little slower, the naps get a little longer and you find yourself appreciating things you once took for granted. A good day, comfortable walk, a tail wag or quiet afternoon together on the couch become super important.
Murphy turns 11 next week.
One of the biggest things he’s taught us in the past few years is that it’s okay for the answer to be no.
These days Murphy gets asked a lot of the same questions.
🐾 Do you want to come to the office?
🐾 Do you want to hop in the car?
🐾 Do you want to go for a walk?
Most of the time the answer now is:
“Not really.”
And that’s okay.
After 11 years of adventures, swimming, training, road trips and being Molly’s shadow, he’s earned the right to spend his “retirement” exactly how he wants.
Usually on the couch and preferably asleep.
The occasional burst of energy still makes Fox’s entire day, but for Murph he gets an even bigger say in what his life looks like.
That might be one of the greatest gifts an older dog gives us. They teach us to slow down, to listen more and to appreciate the ordinary moments.
Because at nearly 11 years old, we know every day is a gift. Anyone who has loved a large or giant breed understands that we don’t take this time for granted ❤️
