It’s truly shocking how cruel some people can be to dogs. These innocent animals too often endure senseless pain and suffering.
That was the case for one dog, who was the victim of a horrible attack in which his face was severely burned. But thankfully, he is now on a long but positive road to recovery, thanks to some kind vets.
Last month, the Tunica Humane Society reported that a dog named Buddy, described as a “happy and carefree dog” who was “never a threat to anyone,” was set on fire. He was found with his face completely scorched and charred black, with an extension cord wrapped around his neck.
According to WTVA, a child later confessed to setting Buddy on fire, but because he is younger than 12 he can’t be prosecuted.
Buddy was put in the care of Tunica Humane Society, in Mississippi, and received medical treatments from the Mississippi State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. In their care, Buddy began a slow but hopeful road to recovery.
“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,” said Dr. Elizabeth Swanson, associate professor and veterinary surgeon, told WTVA.
“We are keeping him comfortable, changing his bandages, and managing any problems as they arise.”
Thankfully, despite the shocking injury, Buddy doesn’t appear to have lost his eyesight. Tunica Humane Society says that doctors believed his eyes are still intact. Damage to his eye lids will be fixed surgically, and he will likely have some vision when he is healed.
Currently, Buddy still has bandages wrapped around his whole upper body. But through it all, he’s keeping in good spirits.
“He continues to move forward daily,” the Humane Society wrote on Facebook. “Never once disappointing his doctors. Everyone concerned has been so pleased with the results of his skin grafts. Burn wounds are a very slow process but Buddy is excelling in his healing.”
“During his bandage change today, he showed remarkable improvement in the appearance of his face. While Buddy continues to heal, he is learning some basic commands.”
All of Buddy’s rescuers hope that, despite the shocking nature of the story, Buddy’s triumph over adversity may prove to be an inspiration.
“This sweet, friendly dog didn’t deserve what happened to him,” they wrote on Facebook. “He wasn’t a threat to anyone. It was extremely cruel and calculated.”
“Hope for Buddy that his horrific injuries weren’t in vain. That somehow, some good will come from this tragedy. That change will come and Justice will be served in cases like Buddy’s.”
We’re so sad for everything Buddy went through — no animal deserves this kind of pain — but we’re so glad to see that he is in good hands and recovering in good spirits.
Share this story and send good thoughts to Buddy!