In 2013, a group of rescuers found Murray and his three Weimaraner littermates abandoned on Dead Dog Beach in Puerto Rico, a notorious spot where people leave unwanted animals. Although they were only a few weeks old at the time of their rescue, Murray and his siblings were already showing symptoms of distemper, a fatal virus that affects dogs’ nervous systems.
Christina Beckles, the creator and leader of The Sato Project in Puerto Rico, recently discussed with The Dodo an emotional experience with a stray dog named Murray. While consoling him on the examination table, she felt a strange sensation in his jaw, indicating he had contracted distemper – a disease that could lead to seizures and brain damage. Sadly, there was no available treatment at the time. Initially, Murray was put to sleep as Beckles and the vet believed it was the most compassionate option. However, the vet had a change of heart when the time came to carry it out.
Beckles shared the story of bringing Murray to the table, where his tail wagged, but sadly, he was unable to overcome the illness. Murray’s odds were low, as one of his littermates had already succumbed to the same illness. Dr. Cathy Meeks, a board-certified veterinarian at BluePearl Veterinary Hospital in Tampa, Florida, stated that 80 percent of puppies with distemper don’t survive. Vaccination is the best way to prevent distemper, but Murray and his siblings, who were living as strays, had not received any vaccinations.
Murray has been facing health challenges such as mild seizures, but there has been progress in his recovery thanks to the treatment he’s been receiving. Due to the effects of distemper, his skull has now taken on a distinct shape. Mackenzie Gallant, his adoptive mother, has observed that his once symmetrical face now seems slightly askew, with the top of his head appearing flatter than before.
Murray had to have most of his teeth removed due to gum disease and decay, leading his tongue to protrude from his mouth. But for Gallant and her family – her parents Kristina and Dennis, siblings Wesley and Eli, two rescue dogs Pili and Fox, and their cat Daphne – these health issues were not a concern. In November 2013, they welcomed Murray into their foster home, and by December, just in time for Christmas, he became a permanent member of their caring household.
“He’s like, the best dog ever,” Gallant gushed, a big grin on her face. “I love him so much. He snuggles up in my room every night without fail.” Despite heading off to college in 2016, Gallant doesn’t let that stop her from keeping in touch with Murray. “Saying goodbye to all my pets was hard, but Murray is different,” she reflected. Even now, Murray still snoozes in Gallant’s room, and they make time to catch up over FaceTime whenever they can.
Gallant shared, “Even during school days, my furry friend sneaks into my room with his pillow and blanket without fail. He’s got the routine down pat. When it’s bedtime for Murray, he excitedly makes his way to my room. I always make it a point to bond with Murray whenever I’m home. One of my favorite things to do is to take Fox, Murray, and Pili out for relaxing walks.”
Gallant mentioned that their dog absolutely adores going on hikes, which is a favorite activity for all three of their pets. Whenever they ask if they are ready for a walk, all the pets start running with excitement. If one of the dogs starts howling, Murray always joins in as well. Gallant also noted that their dog is thriving and always in a good mood, showing equal love for both dogs and people.
Four years have passed since Murray was adopted, but Beckles still cherishes the memory and is thrilled that he has found a loving forever family. Beckles noted that Murray may seem special, but he is just as lively and enjoys hikes and walks like the rest of the dogs. He is treated with the same love and attention as all the other four-legged friends.
Beckles went on to say, “Kristina McKenzie’s family has been amazing from the very beginning. I couldn’t have found a better place for him to be.”
