After being burned by a 12-year-old, Buddy had to fight for his life

Warning: This post contains photos and details that may annoy some readers.

In April 2021, a cute, gentle dog named Buddy returned home with severe burns to his face after being intentionally burned by a 12-year-old boy. There is also an extension cord around the dog’s neck. His abuser probably used it to hold Buddy during the attack.

The facial injuries were so severe that Buddy’s eyes were closed, leaving him temporarily blind. The care needed to save his life was more than his original family could handle, so they put Buddy in the care of the Tunica Humane Society of Mississippi.

Related article: The cutest dog that was burned to receive the heroic animal award

From the very beginning, Buddy won the hearts of everyone he met. People at the Humane Society are pulling him, but vets aren’t sure if he’ll regain his sight or even survive.

“Buddy vital signs are good but, as with any burn patient, this is very much the bottom of a high mountain to climb,” said Dr. Elizabeth Swanson, associate professor and veterinary surgeon y, tell WTVA.

Fortunately, Buddy is as strong as he is sweet. Once the swelling went away, vets were able to determine that the flames did not permanently damage Buddy’s eyes. He will survive and regain his sight.

But his road to recovery did not end with a long shot. Buddy suffered from frequent bandages wrapped around his head and face, covering all but his nose and mouth. The wraps protected his damaged skin but also rendered him blind.

“He keeps moving forward every day,” Humane Society wrote in a Facebook update. “Never let his doctors down. Burn injuries are a very slow process but Buddy is doing an excellent job of healing his wounds.”

After a few months, Buddy’s burn healed enough for him to be transferred to Mississippi State University for a skin graft. With the bandages getting smaller and his eyes finally opening, Buddy’s true self begins to shine.

“Buddy’s entire personality has changed since seeing the light of day,” said a Facebook update from August 2021. “He was happy and playful and strolling through the corridors of the hospital with a big ball in his mouth. He loves the ball. He carries them around so everyone can see them😁“

It’s been a long, tiring year for Buddy. The pain he suffered during his recovery must have been great, but he never once lost his gentle, trusting spirit. He is currently living with his vet Dr. Swanson, who confirms that Buddy is living his best life.

“Many surgeries, hugs from everyone in the hospital, and advocacy games afterward, he is thriving in his foster home!” Buddy’s Friends in the State of Mississippi wrote in a Facebook post.

Buddy’s story made nationwide headlines last year, shocking everyone with the brutality of the attack and the young man’s youth. However, even if the boy who hurt Buddy confessed to the heinous crime, he still could not be charged under Mississippi law due to his age.

Sandy Williams, director of the Tunica Humane Society, said: “It’s hard to believe that someone can be such a villain. FOX 13. “Buddy is an extremely friendly, non-threatening dog. It follows the children in the area everywhere.”

It’s a heartbreaking story with a bittersweet ending. While it’s great to see Buddy thrive, it’s unfair that his attacker has evaded justice.