In April 2021, a heartbreaking story emerged from Mississippi that would rally animal lovers across the world. Buddy, a happy-go-lucky dog known for his sweet nature, was discovered with his face horrifically burned and an extension cord tied tightly around his neck.
He had been set on fire, and the injuries left him unrecognizable.
According to WTVA, it was later revealed that the act had been committed by a child under the age of 12. Because of his age, the boy could not be criminally charged under state law. Still, the news sent shockwaves through the community and ignited urgent conversations about animal protection laws and cruelty prevention.
Buddy’s case wasn’t just another sad story—it became a rallying cry for change.
The Long Road to Healing Begins
After being rescued, Buddy was taken in by Tunica Humane Society and placed in the care of Mississippi State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. His condition was critical, but his vital signs were stable. The veterinary team immediately began treating his extensive burns.
Dr. Elizabeth Swanson, associate professor and veterinary surgeon, shared an early update on his fragile state:
“This is very much the bottom of a tall mountain to be climbed.”
Despite the unimaginable pain he endured, Buddy’s eyes remained unharmed. There was hope that he might one day see again—an astonishing discovery considering the severity of his injuries.
Never Giving Up, Even When the Odds Were Against Him
In the weeks that followed, Buddy underwent multiple skin grafts and intensive daily care. Bandages covered most of his upper body. He required regular sedation for wound treatment, and burn recovery was expected to take months.
But even through the trauma, Buddy remained gentle and resilient.
“He continues to move forward daily,” the Humane Society wrote on Facebook. “Never once disappointing his doctors.”
As he healed, Buddy began learning basic commands—an early sign that he hadn’t lost his trusting nature. His progress touched thousands of followers who clung to every update, cheering him on from afar.
A Breakthrough Moment: Light After Darkness
Then, on August 7, 2021, came a moment that many had prayed for: Buddy’s eye bandages were removed without heavy sedation. It was the first time since the attack that he was able to open his eyes naturally.
“YES, Buddy can still see,” the Tunica Humane Society shared in a tearful update. “His eyes were actually open and he was very aware.”
The last thing Buddy had seen before the attack was fire and terror. Now, for the first time in over three months, he could see the people who had been helping him heal. And with that, something inside him changed.
Joy Comes Roaring Back
Sandy Williams, director of the Tunica Humane Society, described a transformation during an interview with WREG:
“He is happy and playful, walking the halls with a great big ball in his mouth. He loves balls—he carries them around so everyone can see.”
A video shared online showed Buddy playing fetch—his tail wagging, his eyes bright, his joy unmistakable. The burned and broken dog the world first met had grown into a lively, affectionate pup who seemed ready to embrace life again.
A New Life, Full of Light—and Caution
Though Buddy’s recovery is miraculous, he will always require special care. His skin remains sensitive, his eyes need ongoing medication, and he must avoid prolonged sun exposure.
“He is not going to be a dog that can stay out in the sun for hours,” said Williams. “But he’s alive. He’s healing. And he’s finally happy again.”
Buddy’s journey came full circle in the most heartwarming way—he was adopted by none other than Dr. Elizabeth Swanson, the lead veterinarian who guided him through seven months of life-saving treatment. The bond they formed during his recovery proved unbreakable, and today, Buddy lives out his dream life by her side. His best friend Snoop also found a loving forever home, closing this chapter with the happy ending they both deserved.
What Buddy Teaches Us
Buddy’s story stands as a powerful reminder of the resilience animals carry within them—and the profound impact of those who choose to care. What was meant to break him sparked a movement of hope, drawing strength from every hand that helped him heal.
He’s not just a survivor—he’s a symbol of what love, patience, and a second chance can do. “Even after the darkest cruelty, a dog like Buddy can rise again—tail wagging, eyes shining, and heart wide open to the world,” said Sandy Williams, director of the Tunica Humane Society, during an interview with WREG.
His story reminds us that every animal has the potential to heal, no matter how deep the wounds. And behind every rescue is a network of people willing to fight for that healing. When we speak up, step in, and refuse to accept cruelty as normal, we become part of the change—just like the team that saved Buddy.
