If you haven't had the privilege of meeting Murphee (AKA Murph-man, Murph-alurph, Stinky, Stinky Son, Murpheeeeeeeeeee), then you are missing out on one of life's greatest (and smelliest) experiences. 

To the uninitiated, Murphee is a 9-year-old Bijson-shih tzu Frise mix who, in his short little life, has brought immeasurable, limitless joy to his human, Kayti Barkved.

Murphee is the silliest goober with the biggest heart who also happens to have diabetes. In the last month, Murphee's health has declined. In order to make the correct decisions, he needs a procedure to uncover what is ailing him. We're asking his friends and family to help donate to Murphee's procedure so that his people can get insight into what is making him so sick and understand what's best for him.

Murphee isn't "just a dog." He is an emotional support dog to Kayti; he helps her with anxiety and depression, and in recent years, with her diagnosis with Autism. When she didn't have someone to talk to, she had Murphee. When she needed comfort and unconditional love, she had Murphee. When she needed to be grounded, she had a Murphee-shaped tether to bring her back to the present and remind her of who she is, what's around her, and what's important. Murphee has shown her unconditional love and helped Kayti open herself back up to people during particularly difficult times. 

Kayti, in return, has been there for Murphee. Typically, when a dog is diagnosed with diabetes, it's expected that they only live up to 2 years. Murphee was diagnosed when he was 4. He is 9 this year. It's a testimant to the intense love, dedication, and care that Kayti has given him that he has had such a long, healthy life. For the last 5 years of her life, Kayti has woken up every morning, without fail, at the exact same time, on the dot, to inject Murphee with his insulin shots. She buys him only the best food that he needs so that he can live a quality life. Time and again, family and friends have witnessed Kayti overextend herself so that she could provide him with the care he needs, which is difficult for anyone, let alone a full-time student on low-income.

Murphee has been Kayti's constant for the last 9 years. That something so small could bring her such comfort and love is incredible, and we want to help make sure that he has the very best care. So if you can, please consider helping Murphee's humans as they navigate options for the next stage of his life.