Buddy, Dog Who Was Severely Burned By Child, Now ‘Fully Healed’ One Year Later
One year ago, the spotlight shone on Buddy, a resilient dog whose life took a tragic turn when he fell victim to a cruel burn attack, inflicted by a child. The scars on his face bore witness to the ordeal he endured.
Yet, despite the cruelty he faced, Buddy’s indomitable spirit never wavered. Through months of dedicated care and unwavering determination, he embarked on a remarkable journey of recovery.
Today, marking a year since that fateful incident, Buddy’s new guardian proudly announced that he has emerged from his trials triumphantly. With a heart now fully healed, Buddy stands as a testament to resilience and the unwavering bond between humans and animals.
Caution: this story contains some photos that may be distressing to readers.
Buddy catapulted into the public eye in April last year, emerging with severe facial burns inflicted upon him after a heinous act of being set ablaze. His once vibrant skin now bore the charred remnants of the fire’s cruelty, and the intensity of the burning was such that his eyes swelled shut, plunging him into a world of darkness. Tragically, an extension cord was found wound around his neck, a grim indication of the torment he endured.
The perpetrator responsible for this abhorrent assault was revealed to be a juvenile, who confessed to igniting the flames that engulfed Buddy. However, due to Mississippi law, which exempts those under the age of 12 from prosecution, justice eluded this heartless individual.
Buddy’s injuries were grave, necessitating his surrender to the Tunica Humane Society for urgent medical attention. Veterinarians were appalled by the extent of his suffering, acknowledging the arduous journey that lay ahead, with little promise of a favorable outcome.
Sandy Williams, director of the Tunica Humane Society, expressed incredulity at the sheer malevolence behind such an act. She lamented the loss of innocence in Buddy, a once amiable and unassuming companion who roamed the neighborhood alongside the local children.
Despite maintaining stable vital signs, Buddy’s condition remained precarious, as remarked by Dr. Elizabeth Swanson, an esteemed veterinary surgeon. She likened his recovery to scaling a daunting mountain, underscoring the formidable challenges that lay ahead in his path to healing.
After being transferred to the Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine for additional care, Buddy exhibited a remarkable resilience that impressed the attending veterinarians. Despite the challenges he faced, his positive demeanor shone through.
In an update provided by the Humane Society, they noted, “Buddy remained in high spirits, happily wagging his tail and displaying excellent cooperation throughout.”
Buddy’s journey continued at the Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine, where he received ongoing treatment. Despite the obstacles he encountered, his unwavering positivity left a lasting impression on the veterinary team.
In their latest communication, the Humane Society emphasized Buddy’s upbeat demeanor, stating, “He continued to show remarkable resilience, wagging his tail enthusiastically and displaying exceptional cooperation.”
“Today, as his bandages were changed, Buddy’s face revealed remarkable progress, showcasing an improvement that left us astounded. While Buddy continues on his path to recovery, he is also picking up some fundamental commands along the way.”
“After several months of steady improvement, Buddy underwent skin grafts, a turning point that gradually reduced his dependency on bandages, allowing him to reclaim aspects of his former self.”
“With his ears finally liberated from the confines of bandages, Buddy’s demeanor has noticeably shifted towards one of joy and playfulness. It’s evident that as he inches closer to normalcy, he’s embracing life with newfound vigor,” noted the Tunica Humane Society in their update last summer.”
In a significant breakthrough last August, Buddy achieved a major milestone when veterinarians at last removed the bandages veiling his face, granting him the gift of sight after months of darkness.
“The moment his eyes met ours, his awareness was palpable,” shared the Humane Society. “In response to the countless prayers extended on his behalf, we joyously confirm: Buddy’s vision remains intact.”
Buddy’s recollection of sight traces back to the harrowing instance preceding the unimaginable cruelty inflicted upon him by a child. In an instant, his world was engulfed in flames, altering the trajectory of his existence forever.
Achieving sight marked a significant milestone in the journey back to normalcy for the unfortunate pup, with his caregivers noting a remarkable resurgence in his personality.
“Buddy’s demeanor has undergone a remarkable transformation since his sight was restored,” remarked Sandy Williams, the director of the Tunica Humane Society, in an interview with WREG.
“He’s exuding joy, displaying playful antics, and strolling through the hospital corridors with a sizable ball clenched in his jaws. His affection for balls is evident as he parades around, ensuring everyone catches a glimpse.”
Recently, a year following Buddy’s harrowing ordeal of being severely burned, the Humane Society delightedly shared another heartening update: Buddy has now reached a state of being “completely healed.”
Under the nurturing care of Dr. Swanson in a foster home, Buddy’s quality of life has soared, confirmed by the veterinarian.
In jubilant words, the Tunica Humane Society expressed, “His facial wounds have now fully mended,” adding, “Gone are the days of the cumbersome e-collar, and Buddy revels in his newfound freedom! His routine now mirrors that of any typical dog – playful frolics, leisurely strolls, and the indulgence befitting the wonderful canine he is.”
Buddy’s astounding recuperation from his perilous injuries stands as a testament to the extraordinary dedication of his caregivers, a true marvel deserving of pride.
The College of Veterinary Medicine at Mississippi State University, which provided care for Buddy, commemorated his journey with a heartwarming reunion, celebrating his remarkable recovery.
In a touching Facebook post, the college shared a glimpse of Buddy’s progress, highlighting numerous surgeries, tender embraces from the hospital staff, and joyful rounds of fetch that have contributed to his thriving state in his foster home.
Reflecting on Buddy’s ordeal evokes a sense of horror, yet witnessing his tremendous strides over the past year fills us with immense gratitude. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated veterinarians whose expertise and compassion guided Buddy through his miraculous journey to recovery.
