Rivertown Animal Hospital of Stillwater, MN is pleased to announce that our patient, Murphy, along with his companion Lesa Hobright-Turner, of Woodbury, MN have received the Companion Animal Award presented at the 2015 Annual Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association conference in Minneapolis, MN. Dr. Mary Arnesen nominated Murphy for this award because of his exceptional impact on people from all walks of life. He has touched the lives of students, soldiers and everyone who has had the opportunity to interact with this extraordinary dog.
Not only does Murphy serve the students at Middleton two days a week, he also works with college students at the University of Minnesota through the “Pet Away Worry and Stress” initiative. This unique program allows students and faculty alike to maintain or achieve mental wellbeing during stressful times by spending time with Murphy; playing or simply sitting quietly together. Murphy has provided comfort to a soldier suffering from PTSD and a man fighting cancer. His gentle eyes, compassion for the needs of others, and patient understanding is consoling to those who are suffering emotionally and physically.
We are proud of Murphy and the partnership he has established along with his pet parent, Lesa, to provide love and understanding to those he meets. Through his intuition to the needs of others he has brought joy to people of all ages. We are truly honored to be part of Murphy’s care and to have such an outstanding animal selected for this award! Congratulations Murphy and keep up the good work!!