The 1-year-old shelter dog is winning hearts with his progress, playful spirit and eagerness to learn
JACKSON, NJ – Murphy arrived at the shelter as a young stray who did not even know how to sit, but just one week of training has revealed a smart, playful 1-year-old who has learned multiple commands, passed his temperament test and is showing everyone around him how much he can accomplish when someone gives him a chance.
Murphy is currently looking for a foster or adopter through Pitties & Pals Rescue, which has committed to supporting him and continuing the progress he has already made.
His transformation has come quickly.
A week ago, Murphy did not know the sit command.
Now he sits on command, knows down and is learning how to walk politely on a leash.
His advocates say he also makes strong eye contact with his handler and remains engaged during training sessions.
Each session is providing another glimpse of a young dog eager to learn.
Murphy came into the shelter as a stray without much previous guidance or training, according to his advocates. At approximately a year old, he remains energetic and playful, with plenty of opportunity to continue building his skills.
He can initially be unsure around people he does not know and sometimes communicates that uncertainty by barking.
With patience and time to become comfortable, however, Murphy has been making new friends and showing more of his personality.
There is also encouraging news about his behavior around other dogs.
Murphy passed his temperament testing and successfully met another dog.
His advocates say he can be reactive and enthusiastic, so any home with another dog would require a canine companion whose personality and energy are a suitable match.
Murphy was also recently evaluated for a program that ultimately was not considered the right fit for him. His training did not stop there.
He has continued making progress with volunteers while waiting for the person who can provide the patience, structure and consistency needed to build on what he has learned.
Pitties & Pals Rescue is invested in Murphy’s continued development and will provide the supplies needed for an approved foster home.
A foster or adopter is being sought within approximately 60 minutes of Jackson.
Those interested in fostering or adopting Murphy can apply through pittiesandpals.com. Questions can also be directed to Kathleenfrett1@gmail.com.
For a dog who could not sit on command a week ago, Murphy has already shown how quickly his story can change when someone invests a little time in him.
Key Points
- Murphy is approximately 1 year old and has quickly learned sit and down while working on polite leash walking and developing strong engagement with his handlers.
- He passed his temperament testing and successfully met another dog, although any canine companion would need to be appropriately matched to his energy.
- Pitties & Pals Rescue is supporting Murphy and is seeking a foster or adopter within approximately 60 minutes of Jackson.
