It’s really shocking how cruel some people can be to dogs. These innocent creatures often suffer through pointless pain and hardship.
This was true for one dog, who experienced a terrible attack that left his face badly burned. Fortunately, he has been making a miraculous recovery, thanks to some compassionate veterinarians.
In April 2021, the Tunica Humane Society reported about a dog named Buddy, who was described as a “happy and carefree dog” that was “never a threat to anyone.” He was found with his face completely burned and charred black, with an extension cord around his neck.
According to WTVA, a child later admitted to setting Buddy on fire, but since he is under 12, he cannot be prosecuted.
Buddy was taken in by the Tunica Humane Society in Mississippi and received medical care from the Mississippi State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Under their care, Buddy started a slow but promising journey to recovery.
“Buddy’s vital signs are good, but like any burn patient, this is just the beginning of a long journey ahead,” said Dr. Elizabeth Swanson, an associate professor and veterinary surgeon, to WTVA.
“We are keeping him comfortable, changing his bandages, and addressing any issues as they come up.
Fortunately, even after the shocking injury, Buddy seems to have retained his eyesight. The Tunica Humane Society mentioned that doctors believe his eyes are still okay. They will perform surgery to repair the damage to his eyelids, and he is expected to have some vision once he recovers.
Buddy still had to wear bandages all around his upper body. But despite everything, he has maintained a positive attitude.
“He keeps making progress every day,” the Humane Society posted on Facebook. “He has never let his doctors down. Everyone involved has been really happy with how well his skin grafts are doing. Healing from burn wounds takes a long time, but Buddy is doing great.”
“During his bandage change today, there was a noticeable improvement in how his face looks. While Buddy is still healing, he is also learning some basic commands.”
“This sweet, friendly dog didn’t deserve what happened to him,” they shared on Facebook. “He was never a threat to anyone. It was incredibly cruel and intentional.”
“We hope for Buddy that his terrible injuries weren’t for nothing. That somehow, some good will come from this tragedy. That change will happen and justice will be served in cases like Buddy’s.”
Since Buddy’s story became popular a few years back, he has continued to make progress and received excellent care from the vets at Mississippi State.
He had skin grafts to heal his burns and needed fewer and fewer bandages. Gradually, he returned to his former self.
“Now that his ears are free from the bandages, he is much happier and more playful. I’m sure he is feeling a lot of joy as he slowly gets his life back to normal,” the Tunica Humane Society reported last month.
On August 7, the rescue team shared a significant milestone in Buddy’s recovery.
For the first time, Buddy’s bandages, which had completely covered his eyes since the attack, were taken off without him needing heavy sedation — meaning that for the first time in over three months, Buddy could actually see.
“His eyes were truly open and he was very aware,” the Humane Society stated. “In response to your countless prayers, YES, Buddy can still see.”
“Buddy’s last clear memory of sight was during the terrifying moments just before a child set his face on fire. In an instant, this dog’s entire life changed.”
Finally regaining his sight was a major step towards normalcy for this unfortunate pup, and his caregivers report that his personality is starting to shine through again.
“Buddy’s entire personality has transformed since he saw the light of day,” Sandy Williams, director of the Tunica Humane Society, told WREG.
“He is joyful and playful, walking the hospital halls with a big ball in his mouth. He adores balls. He carries them around so everyone can notice.”
A video shared by the rescue captures Buddy playing fetch:
Although this is a significant advancement, Buddy is not completely out of danger. He still needs time to heal, and his eyelids will require some attention to safeguard his eyes, as mentioned by the Humane Society on Facebook.
Due to the seriousness of his injuries, he will have special needs for the remainder of his life.
“His skin will be sensitive, his eyes will likely need eye drops, and he must wear sunscreen when outdoors,” Williams explained to WREG. “He won’t be a dog that can stay outside in the sun for long periods.”
Many of you have been inquiring about Buddy lately. Here’s a very positive update from his forever mom, Dr.…
We’re thrilled to see that Buddy can see again and is beginning to resemble his former self! His recovery has been nothing short of miraculous, thanks to all the wonderful people who have been dedicated to saving him.
