It’s heartbreaking to think about the cruelty some animals are forced to endure — especially dogs, who ask for nothing more than love and loyalty. Sadly, one dog named Buddy became the victim of unimaginable abuse that left even seasoned rescuers in shock.
In April 2021, the Tunica Humane Society shared the devastating story: Buddy, once a joyful and gentle soul who posed no harm to anyone, had been deliberately set on fire. He was found with his face burned so severely it had turned black and blistered — and around his neck was an extension cord, a chilling sign of the torture he’d endured.
But despite the horror he faced, Buddy’s story didn’t end there. Thanks to a team of compassionate vets and rescuers, this brave dog began what would become a miraculous journey of healing — and hope.
A child later admitted to setting Buddy on fire. However, because the child is under the age of 12, they cannot be legally prosecuted.
Buddy was taken in by the Tunica Humane Society in Mississippi, where he began receiving specialized medical care at Mississippi State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Under the watchful eyes of dedicated veterinarians, Buddy started a slow but hopeful journey toward healing.
“Buddy’s vital signs are stable, but with burn injuries, this is just the beginning of a long road ahead,” explained Dr. Elizabeth Swanson, associate professor and veterinary surgeon, in an interview with WTVA.
“We are focused on keeping him comfortable, regularly changing his bandages, and addressing any complications as they come up.”
Fortunately, despite the severity of his injuries, Buddy appears to have retained his eyesight. The Tunica Humane Society shared that veterinarians believe his eyes remain intact. While the damage to his eyelids will require surgical repair, it’s expected that Buddy will have some vision once he fully recovers.
Though he still had to wear bandages wrapped around much of his upper body, Buddy’s spirit remained unbroken.
“He continues to make progress every day,” the Humane Society wrote on Facebook. “He’s never once let his doctors down. Everyone involved has been incredibly impressed with the success of his skin grafts. Healing from burn wounds is a slow process, but Buddy is truly excelling.”
“During his most recent bandage change, his face showed remarkable improvement. While Buddy continues to recover, he’s also learning some basic commands.”
“This gentle and loving dog never deserved the cruelty he endured,” the Humane Society posted on Facebook. “Buddy posed no threat to anyone — what happened to him was both horrific and deliberate.”
“We hold onto hope that Buddy’s suffering will not be in vain. That from this tragedy, something positive will emerge. That awareness will grow, change will follow, and justice will be served for animals like Buddy.”
Since Buddy’s story captured hearts worldwide a few years ago, he has steadily made remarkable progress thanks to the exceptional care provided by veterinarians at Mississippi State.
After undergoing skin graft surgeries to repair his burns, Buddy needed fewer and fewer bandages as time passed. Gradually, he began to reclaim the joyful, playful spirit he had before.
“Now that his ears are free from the bandages, he’s noticeably happier and more lively,” the Tunica Humane Society shared last month. “We can tell he’s feeling a deep sense of joy as he slowly returns to the life he deserves.”
On August 7, the rescue team shared a monumental milestone in Buddy’s recovery.
For the very first time since the attack, Buddy’s bandages — which had completely covered his eyes for more than three months — were removed without the need for heavy sedation. This meant that Buddy could actually see again after a long, painful wait.
“His eyes were open, and he was fully alert,” the Humane Society announced. “In response to the thousands of prayers, the answer is YES — Buddy can still see.”
“Buddy’s last clear memory of sight was in the terrifying moments just before a child set his face on fire. In an instant, his entire world was turned upside down.”
Being able to see again marked a huge breakthrough on Buddy’s path back to normal life. His caregivers say his true personality is starting to shine through once more.
“Since Buddy regained his sight, his whole demeanor has transformed,” Sandy Williams, director of the Tunica Humane Society
“He’s happy, playful, and can often be seen trotting through the hospital halls with a big ball in his mouth. Buddy absolutely loves balls and proudly carries them around for everyone to see.”
While Buddy’s recent progress is a tremendous milestone, his journey to full recovery isn’t over yet. The Tunica Humane Society shared on Facebook that Buddy still has a long road ahead.
His eyelids will require surgical work to protect his eyes properly, and due to the severity of his injuries, he will have ongoing special needs.
“His skin will remain sensitive, and his eyes will likely need daily eye drops,” explained Sandy Williams to WREG. “He’ll also need to wear sunscreen when outside and won’t be able to spend long hours in the sun like other dogs.”
Despite these challenges, Buddy’s spirit remains unbroken, and with the love and care of his forever family, he continues to thrive.
We’re overjoyed that Buddy has regained his sight and is beginning to show the playful, joyful spirit he had before. His recovery has been nothing short of miraculous — all thanks to the dedication and kindness of the amazing people who have fought to give him a second chance.
