It’s heartbreaking how some people can treat animals with such cruelty, causing them unnecessary pain and suffering. Sadly, this was the case for a dog named Buddy, who endured a horrific attack but has since been making an incredible recovery, thanks to compassionate veterinarians.

In April 2021, the Tunica Humane Society shared the tragic story of Buddy, a dog who was described as a “happy and carefree” animal. Buddy, who was never a threat to anyone, was set on fire. His face was severely burned, and an extension cord was found wrapped around his neck. The incident shocked the community, and later, a child admitted to setting Buddy on fire. However, due to the child’s age, under 12, they were not held legally accountable. Despite the pain Buddy endured, he was brought to the Tunica Humane Society in Mississippi, where he received medical care from Mississippi State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

Buddy’s journey to recovery was long, but there was hope. Dr. Elizabeth Swanson, an associate professor and veterinary surgeon, expressed optimism, saying, “Buddy’s vital signs are good but, as with any burn patient, this is very much the bottom of a tall mountain to be climbed.” She assured that Buddy was being kept comfortable and monitored closely as his medical team worked diligently to treat his injuries.

Despite the severity of his burns, Buddy’s eyesight appeared intact. The doctors believed his eyes would heal, although damage to his eyelids required surgical intervention. Buddy’s road to recovery involved wearing bandages around his upper body as his injuries were treated, but he maintained a positive spirit throughout it all. The Tunica Humane Society shared updates on social media, celebrating Buddy’s progress.

“Buddy continues to move forward daily, never once disappointing his doctors,” the organization wrote on Facebook. “Everyone has been so pleased with the results of his skin grafts.” As time passed, Buddy’s healing became more evident. His facial wounds showed marked improvement, and Buddy started to learn basic commands.

The cruelty Buddy faced was incomprehensible, but the community rallied around him, providing the care he needed to heal both physically and emotionally. “This sweet, friendly dog didn’t deserve what happened to him,” the Humane Society stated. “He wasn’t a threat to anyone. It was extremely cruel and calculated. Hope for Buddy is that somehow, some good will come from this tragedy.”

Buddy’s recovery continued steadily. He underwent skin grafts, and over time, he needed fewer and fewer bandages. He returned to his playful self, enjoying his life again. “Now that his ears are loose from the bandages, he is much happier and more playful,” the Humane Society reported. “I am sure he is feeling so much joy as he slowly gets his life back to normal.”

By August 7, Buddy reached an exciting milestone in his recovery. For the first time, his bandages were removed without the need for heavy sedation, allowing Buddy to see once more. His eyes had been covered for months, but now, for the first time since the attack, Buddy could see the world around him. “In answer to your thousands and thousands of prayers, YES, Buddy can still see,” the Humane Society wrote. This was a massive breakthrough in Buddy’s recovery and an emotional moment for everyone who had supported him.

Buddy’s return to normalcy was marked by his newfound energy. “Buddy’s whole personality has changed since seeing the light of day,” said Sandy Williams, director of the Tunica Humane Society. “He is happy and playful and walking the halls of the hospital with a great big ball in his mouth. He loves balls and carries them around so everyone can see.”

However, while Buddy’s recovery was miraculous, he was still not completely healed. His eyes will require future care, including the use of eye drops, and his eyelids will need further surgery. Buddy also has special needs due to the severity of his burns. “His skin is going to be sensitive, his eyes will probably require eye drops, he’ll have to wear sunscreen when he’s outside,” explained Williams. “He is not going to be a dog that can stay out in the sun for hours at a time.”

Despite these ongoing challenges, Buddy’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of compassion. His journey from pain and suffering to recovery has touched the hearts of many. The kind people who helped Buddy along the way, including the veterinarians and volunteers, have ensured that he has a chance at a happy life once again.

As Buddy continues his recovery, his story serves as a reminder of the importance of kindness and the impact that care and love can have on an animal’s well-being. Thanks to the dedication of everyone involved, Buddy is slowly but surely becoming his old self again, and for that, we are all grateful.