Maple Grove Elementary mourns therapy dog Miss Murphy

Battle Ground — The Maple Grove Elementary School community is mourning Miss Murphy, the beloved golden retriever therapy dog who died last week after an “undetermined illness,” according to a statement from the school. Miss Murphy was a vital member of the school staff for eight years, working with her owner, school psychologist Tracey Viall, to help calm and bring comfort to struggling students. A favorite photo of Miss Murphy showed her wearing reading glasses and sitting behind the desk of Denny Waters, executive director of special services for Battle Ground Public Schools. “Miss Murphy was very special. She gave so much love and brought so much joy to so many people. She was a valued member of our staff. We will really miss her,” Waters said. Counselors were available at the school to help students talk through their loss.