Murphy was a little unwanted mixed breed stray who was caught by a shelter in Maryland.  He was skinny, hungry and a dirty matted mess.  Life had been pretty hard for this poor misunderstood little dog.               
     Fortunately his luck changed when Suzi was going through the shelter looking for a Hearing Dog candidate.  She felt sorry for the poor little guy and recognized his potential to become a Hearing Ear Dog.  She adopted Murphy, got him some much needed veterinary care, and started some house manners and obedience training.  Murphy was quite challenging, but Suzi knew that with the right guidance, love and care, he could become a very special dog.
                Beverly, from Canine Helpers for the Handicapped, temperament tested Murphy and accepted him into the Assistance Dog program.  Murphy made the big trip to Lockport, NY where he began the next phase of his life.  He trained daily  in  obedience,  manners  and  hearing work, as well as loads of public  training including fairs, restaurants, stores and subways.
                Suzi visited several times in the beginning so Murphy would know he was not being abandoned by her.  He really improved and learned his training well, but you could tell he was waiting for Suzi to come back.  He had bonded with her so quickly and trusted she would be back.
                The day Suzi returned for Murphy, he went crazy!  He did all his work the best he possibly could - so eager to please her and return to his new loving home!
                Suzi and her loving companion Murphy are now doing great together.  No one could be happier or luckier than Murphy!  TWO lives were dramatically changed that fateful day Suzi found hope and promise in a little stray at the shelter.