Missing dog traveled from California to Texas in 4 years. Now he’s back with his owner

Oh, the stories Murphy could tell.

After going missing from his California home, not much is known about the four years that followed for the senior dog who somehow made his way to Texas.

Did he find comfort in a loving home? Did he travel by foot over the years, living as a stray dog?

We may never know, but Murphy is now back where he belongs — with his Southern California owner.

The “beloved” dog, who vanished without a trace four years ago, was recently discovered roaming in a San Antonio yard, according to City of San Antonio Animal Care Services. Luckily, Murphy was microchipped, leading rescuers to his owner 1,200 miles away.

His owner, only identified as “Ms. C,” was “floored” to learn her dog had been found.

“She never gave up hope. Without missing a beat, she booked the next flight she could and was reunited with Murphy just 4 days after she received the call of him being in our care,” animal care services said in a Feb. 21 Facebook post.

The organization preached the importance of microchips, as it led to the reunion between Murphy and his owner.

Now, Murphy has a lot of catching up to do.

“A lot has changed in four years,” Ms. C said, according to animal care services. “I got married, I have a daughter now… and now, I finally have the missing piece of my life back.”

This story was originally published February 25, 2025 at 11:46 AM with the headline "Missing dog traveled from California to Texas in 4 years. Now he’s back with his owner."