During the year 2013, rescuers discovered Murray and his three Weimaraner siblings on Dead Dog Beach, a well-known beach in Puerto Rico where individuals dump unwanted pets. Despite being just a few weeks old when they were saved, Murray and his siblings were already displaying signs of distemper, a deadly virus that attacks a dog’s nervous system.
Christina Beckles, founder and president of The Sato Project, an organization in Puerto Rico dedicated to rescuing stray dogs, shared with The Dodo, “I was comforting him on the examination table and noticed a strange sensation in his jaw – a sign of distemper.” “Unfortunately, there was no treatment available at that point.” This disease could lead to seizures and potential brain damage in the dog. Initially, Murray was euthanized due to Beckles and the veterinarian deeming it the kindest option. However, the veterinarian had a change of heart when the moment arrived.
Beckles recounted how she brought Murray to the table, where he wagged his tail, but sadly, he couldn’t survive. Murray’s chances were slim, as one of his siblings had already succumbed to the illness. According to BluePearl Veterinary Hospital’s board-certified veterinarian Cathy Meeks in Tampa, Florida, 80 percent of puppies with distemper do not make it. The most effective way to prevent distemper is through vaccination. Unfortunately, Murray and his littermates had not received any vaccinations as they were living as strays.
Murray is still dealing with some health issues like mild seizures, but he has shown improvement with treatment. As a result of the distemper, his skull has taken on a unique shape. While his face was once very symmetrical, now his adoptive mother, Mackenzie Gallant, notes that it appears slightly crooked. The top of his head is now fairly flat in comparison.
The majority of Murray’s teeth had to be extracted because of gum disease and decay, causing his tongue to stick out of his mouth. However, for Gallant and her family – including her parents Kristina and Dennis, siblings Wesley and Eli, two rescue dogs named Pili and Fox, and their cat Daphne – these physical challenges were insignificant. They welcomed Murray into their foster care in November 2013, and by the next month, right before Christmas, he was officially adopted into their loving home.
“He’s my favorite pup,” Gallant expressed with a smile. “I absolutely adore him. He curls up in my room every single night.” Even though Gallant went back to college in 2016, she makes sure to stay in touch with Murray as much as possible. She mentioned, “It was really tough saying goodbye to all my pets, but Murray holds a special place in my heart.” To this day, Murray still snoozes in Gallant’s bedroom and they often catch up over FaceTime.
Gallant mentioned, “Even when I’m at school, he still sneaks into my room with his pillow and blanket. He knows the routine too. When it’s bedtime for Murray, he eagerly runs up to my room. Gallant makes sure to spend quality time with Murray whenever she’s home. Her favorite pastime is taking Fox, Murray, and Pili for leisurely walks.”
Gallant added, “He really loves going on hikes.” “That’s the highlight of the day for all three of our pets.” We just have to ask, “Ready for a walk?” and they all start running. If one of my dogs starts howling, Murray joins in too. Gallant also mentioned, “He’s thriving and is always in a good mood. He adores both dogs and people equally.”
Even though it’s been four years since Murray was rescued, Beckles still fondly remembers him and is happy that he has found a wonderful forever home. Beckles mentioned how this particular dog stands out but in reality, he is just as active as the other dogs, enjoying hikes and walks like them. He receives the same love and care as all the other furry companions.
Beckles added, “Kristina McKenzie’s mother and her family have been incredible since the start. I couldn’t have asked for a better place for him.”
