Buddy, a dog, made headlines a year ago after being the victim of a horrible burn attack conducted by a child that horribly damaged his face.
But this dog never lost his spirit, and over the last few months, he’s made a miraculous recovery – and now, a year later, his new owner has confirmed that Buddy is “completely cured” and doing well.
Caution: this story contains some photographs that may be disturbing to readers.
Buddy made news for the first time in April, when he came home with horrific burns on his face after being set on fire. His skin was burned, and the scorching was so bad that his eyes swelled shut, making him blind. He was also wearing an extension cable around his neck, which was reportedly used to bind him.
The horrifying attack’s culprit was ultimately identified as a child, who admitted to lighting the dog on fire but was unable to be prosecuted owing to Mississippi law, which specifies that no one under the age of 12 may be charged.
Buddy’s injuries were so bad that he had to be turned over to the Tunica Humane Society for treatment. His vets were caught aback by the time and cautioned that the dog faced a long road ahead, noting that his “prognosis isn’t good right now.”
Sandy Williams, director of the Tunica Humane Society, told FOX 13 that “it’s incomprehensible that someone could be so nasty.” “Buddy was a very pleasant, non-aggressive dog. He followed the youngsters around the neighborhood everywhere.”
“Buddy’s vital signs are good,” Dr. Elizabeth Swanson, associate professor and veterinary surgeon, told WTVA. “However, as with every burn patient, this is very much the bottom of a big mountain to be climbed.”
Buddy was brought to Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine for additional treatment, and the vets were amazed by his cheerful attitude in the face of hardship.
In an update, the Humane Society wrote, “He was in good spirits, wagging his tail, and quite cooperative.”
Buddy’s condition improved over time. Buddy was unable to see owing to the bandages on his head, but vets were happy to discover that his eyelids had not been affected by the burns.
On Facebook, the Humane Society wrote, “He continues to move forward daily.” “He has never let his physicians down. The outcomes of his skin grafts have been acclaimed by all parties concerned. Burn wounds take a long time to cure, but Buddy is doing remarkably well.”
“He improved substantially in the look of his face throughout his bandage change today.” Buddy is learning some basic instructions as he heals.”
Buddy had received skin grafts after a few months of improvement, allowing him to gradually return to his old self with less bandages.
“He’s more happier and more playful now that his ears are no longer restricted by bandages. Last summer, the Tunica Humane Society stated, “I am sure he is feeling so much delight as he slowly gets his life back to normal.”
Buddy also accomplished a huge milestone in August when the bandages on his face were finally removed, allowing him to see for the first time in months.
The Humane Society wrote, “His eyes were genuinely open and he was extremely conscious.” “YES, Buddy can still see, in thanks to your thousands of thousands of prayers.”
“Buddy’s last true vision was in the final terrifying minutes right before a child set fire to his face. This dog’s entire existence altered in the twinkling of an eye.”
For this sad dog, being able to see was a significant step toward returning to normalcy, and his caretakers believe his personality has begun to shine once more.
Sandy Williams, director of the Tunica Humane Society, told WREG that “Buddy’s whole personality has changed since seeing the light of day.”
“He’s happy and playful, and he’s strolling around the hospital with a large ball in his mouth.
” He is a tremendous lover of balls. He brings them about with him so that everyone may see them.”
Buddy is now “completely recovered,” according to the Humane Society, one year after he was horrifically burnt.
Buddy has been in a foster home with Dr. Swanson, and the veterinarian has confirmed that Buddy is doing well.
The Tunica Humane Society wrote, “His face is now entirely healed.” “He no longer has to wear an e-collar, which he adores! His days are now spent as they would be for any other dog. Playing fetch, going for long walks, and getting indulged since he’s such a great dog!”
“Buddy’s incredible recovery from his near-fatal injuries is certainly a miracle, and all of Buddy’s carers should be tremendously pleased.”
Buddy’s treatment team at Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine honored the event with a reunion with their patient and a celebration of Buddy’s recovery.
