Meet Murray!
Having big shoes to fill after our previous facility dog, Marion, Murray joined us in December 2022. He is a five-year-old Standard Poodle and in 2025, he worked over 100 hours alongside our Clinical Director, Robin Friesen-Holwell.
At Blue Sky Bridge, we pride ourselves on providing a safe and welcoming environment to our community. Murray’s original trainer and handler from Anchor Assistant Dogs believed he was destined to work with children. He knows how to read a room and people’s emotions.
According to an American Counseling Association member, “research shows these animals [dogs] can help to reduce stress, anxiety and depression on a chemical level.” For example, snuggling up with a pet or petting a dog can relieve tension, boost serotonin and oxytocin release, and even reduce blood pressure.
During a therapy session, Murray provides not only physical but psychological comfort to all those involved. Murray’s favorite thing to do is rest his head on your feet or cuddle up next to the children during sessions with Robin. Not only does his presence benefit the children, but he also helps support Robin and the rest of the therapy staff by helping establish and hold that safe space. He is a grounding entity for complex topics.
He likes tugging and chewing on ropes and balls or looking out the window waiting for his next job. The children of Blue Sky Bridge love to greet Murray at the door and are always excited to see his new hairstyle after trips to the groomers.
We are so lucky to have Licensed Therapist Robin Friesen-Holwell and Murray at Blue Sky Bridge.
