07/01/2026
Today we remember Murphy.
Murphy passed away peacefully in his bed at home, surrounded by love and affection from his
parents on June 9, 2026.
Murphyâs life began exactly as it was meant to. His parents had gone to meet a different puppy, an all white American Bulldog they thought they had chosen. While visiting, that puppy wanted nothing to do with them. Meanwhile, another determined little puppy was climbing out of his box, covering them with kisses, and making his choice perfectly clear. Murphy picked his family that day and in September of 2012, at six weeks old, he came home.
From the very beginning, Murphy lived life with enthusiasm. In his younger years he had endless energy and was always up for a game of tug. As he grew into a 90 lbs dog, he never realized just how big he was. He was a lap dog and wanted to be on top of his humans or as close to them as possible. He had a special talent for diving headfirst under the covers until he found complete darkness. His favorite place to be was wherever his people were.
Murphy was a smart dog and had several talents. He could shake, roll over, spin, and patiently balance a treat on his nose before earning it. While he appreciated a well earned snack, he wasnât known for being selective. Some of his favorites included peanut butter, pizza, and ice cream, but Murphy believed almost anything deserved a taste. His love of eating got him into trouble on more than one occasion as he didnât limit himself to only food when looking for something to munch on. Whether it was a face mask, socks, beads, or a baby bib, he kept his veterinary team guessing about what they would find next.
However, Murphyâs greatest role wasn't as entertainer or as mischievous troublemaker, it was being family. He witnessed so many chapters of his parentsâ lives together. He was there for their first home, college graduations, stood by as they married, welcomed their first baby home, moved to a new home, and welcomed two more babies. Through all of these milestones, and every ordinary day in between, Murphy was there.
He took his job as protector seriously, announcing visitors with his booming bark before greeting them with kisses instead. He adored his family and nowhere was that love more evident than with his kiddos. He was their steadfast companion and the very best cuddle buddy.
One of the greatest privileges of my work is witnessing the depth of the human-animal bond.
Although our time together was brief, it was impossible not to see how deeply Murphy was
cherished. The gentle goodbye his family gave him was a final act of love. He left this world surrounded by the people he chose all those years ago. His memory will live on forever in the hearts of those who loved him.
Rest in peace, sweet Murphy.
With sympathy,
Dr. Aussieker
Peaceful Passing for Pets