Murphy written by Victoria H.

Hi! My name is Murphy (formerly known as Fred), and I am an 11 year-old golden retriever. Would you believe I ended up on the street after my owners left me at a gas station? After wandering around for a while, trying to find something to eat, Animal Control was called to come pick me up. Before I knew it, I was in a large, noisy place with many other dogs. I had no idea what I could have done to have ended up in that awful place. Thankfully, a compassionate Animal Control employee called GRRA to let them know about me. One of the GRRA volunteers came to look at me and decided that they would take me into their rescue program.

Fast forward through the vet check (I was in pretty decent health, although thin). I went to a wonderful foster home. The family made me feel welcome right away. I was happy to be with people that gave me a lot of attention, let me stay in the house with them, and fed me well.

At Adoption Day, there wasn't too much interest in me. It seemed like all of the people were interested in those young, hyper puppies. Can you imagine?! There I was, well-behaved, housebroken, and no trouble at all, and people passed me right by. I think it may have been my white face that turned them away. I think I am like a fine wine; I get better with time. I knew it would take someone very special to appreciate my calm demeanor, good manners, and years of wisdom.

Several weeks went by, and a family came to visit me. They had seen and read about me on the GRRA website and thought I was cute (true!). My foster parents introduced them to me, and we spent some time together. I could tell from the start that they really seemed to think I was something special (very true!), and they decided to adopt me. Yeah!!

Fast forward again. I now live with wonderful people who give me so much love and attention that it's amazing. I am pretty sure they get something in return because I overheard my mom on the phone with someone saying that I was the greatest dog ever (Wow!). I spend my days taking walks, sleeping, and hanging out with my family. I don't get around like I used to in my younger days, but I still like to have a nice walk and chase a ball here and there.

I am so thankful that GRRA took me in and found me a forever family. And please don't get me wrong. Golden retrievers of all ages are great, but I tend to think there's something really special about those of us with the white muzzles. Don't you agree?

Golden Retriever Rescue of Atlanta™, the original Golden & Labrador Retriever Rescue in Atlanta, is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to saving Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers that have been left in animal shelters. Started in 1991, Golden Retriever Rescue of Atlanta™ is registered with the State of Georgia and is licensed by the State Agriculture Department as an animal shelter and rescue group. Please click here to make a donation - no donation is too small and all donations are greatly appreciated.

Click here to read other rescue stories from GRRA™.