In the photo above, Murray provided pet therapy to an ICU patient; they had a special bond. The patient’s condition was critical when Murray visited and the next day, his condition had stablized and he was sharing with all the staff that it was “because of Murray”
Murray was rescued at the age of 8, along with his bonded “girlfriend”, Tilly. They were used for breeding and only lived outside. When the breeder was done with them, he brought them to a local shelter. We had just lost our first basset (Howie) and was grieving, when a co-worker mentioned that Murray and Tilly were in need of a home, we said, yes. It took quite a while to adjust to living indoors, but Murray showed the look of pure contentment as he laid on our couch. He was extremely shy, but went on to be certified in pet therapy. Murray passed at the age of 14 and almost 2 years later, Tilly passed at the age of 15.
Thank you for sharing his story.
Exclusive Members-Only Webinar:
A conversation on the human face of shelter and rescue work with Dillon Dodson
Join us for this exciting event
We are delighted to invite you to an exclusive members-only webinar featuring Dillon Dodson, veterinary social worker, Director of Social Work at the Toronto Humane Society, and Vice President of our partner organization, the International Association of Veterinary Social Work. This special event is designed to shine a light on the human side of animal welfare work in rescues and shelters.
Event Details
Date:Â Thursday, October 30th, 2025
Time:Â 7:00-8:00 PM, ET
Platform:Â Zoom (registration required)
Join the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement today and create a special online memorial for your pet. Enjoy 20% off a Silver or Platinum membership— offer ends September 7.
In honor of Rainbow Bridge Memorial Day (August 28), we are offering a 20% discount on Silver and Platinum memberships throughout the entire month of August. By joining us, you will have the unique opportunity to create a lasting online memorial for your pet, complete with photos and stories you can cherish.
This year the Association of Pet Loss & Bereavement (APLB) is participating in Giving Tuesday, December 3rd. Giving Tuesday is a global generosity movement, unleashing the power of people and organizations to transform their communities and the world.Â
Please give generously. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those grieving the loss of their cherished pets.
This year the Association of Pet Loss & Bereavement (APLB) is participating in Giving Tuesday, on December 3rd. Giving Tuesday is a global generosity movement, unleashing the power of people and organizations to transform their communities and the world.Â
Please give generously. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those grieving the loss of their cherished pets.
