Burned and left for dead, Buddy the dog now thrives thanks to love and care

Buddy was cruelly set on fire and strangled with an extension cord — but after years of healing, this brave dog is now happy, playful, and finally able to see again.

In April 2021, a sweet dog named Buddy was found in Tunica, Mississippi, with unimaginable injuries. His face was burned so badly it had turned black, and an extension cord was wrapped tightly around his neck. According to reports, a young child later confessed to setting Buddy on fire — but because the child was under 12, he couldn’t be legally prosecuted.

Buddy had never harmed anyone. The Tunica Humane Society described him as a happy, carefree dog who didn’t deserve the pain he suffered.

“He wasn’t a threat to anyone,” the group wrote on Facebook. “It was extremely cruel and calculated.”

The long road to healing

Buddy was taken in by the Tunica Humane Society and placed under the care of veterinary experts at Mississippi State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. The road to recovery was steep, but from the very beginning, Buddy showed signs of hope.

“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, one of the surgeons overseeing his care.

Despite severe facial burns, veterinarians believed Buddy’s eyes were still intact. Over the months that followed, he underwent multiple surgeries, including skin grafts, and remained wrapped in bandages to protect his fragile skin.

But even in pain, Buddy’s spirit remained strong. His caregivers praised his progress, saying he never disappointed his doctors and was always eager to keep moving forward.

A breakthrough moment: Buddy sees the world again

After more than three months of recovery, the rescue team shared a major milestone in Buddy’s healing journey: for the first time since the attack, his eye bandages were removed — and he could see.

“His eyes were actually open and he was very aware,” the Humane Society reported. “In answer to your thousands and thousands of prayers, YES, Buddy can still see.”

This emotional moment marked a turning point. As his vision returned, so did his joyful personality.

“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. He carries them around so everyone can see.”

A heartwarming video showed Buddy doing just that — playing fetch, tail wagging, eyes shining.

Buddy’s new life comes with care and love

While Buddy has come a long way, his recovery isn’t over yet. He still requires special care. His skin is now sensitive, his eyes need protection, and he’ll have to wear sunscreen when he’s outside.

“He is not going to be a dog that can stay out in the sun hours at a time,” said Williams. “His eyes will probably require eye drops for the rest of his life.”

Still, considering where he started, Buddy’s progress has been nothing short of miraculous.

A story that touched the world

Buddy’s story went viral after the attack, and thousands of people around the world followed his journey, sending prayers and support. Many expressed outrage over the cruelty he endured, especially since the person responsible couldn’t be charged due to age.

Yet, out of that pain came something powerful — a global community united in hope and compassion.

“Hope for Buddy that his horrific injuries weren’t in vain,” the rescue wrote. “That somehow, some good will come from this tragedy. That change will come and justice will be served in cases like Buddy’s.”

Buddy’s journey is more than just a survival story — it’s a reminder of how love, patience, and expert care can transform even the darkest situations. It’s also a call to action for stronger protections for animals and education for children about kindness and empathy.

From lying burned and broken to running through hallways with a ball in his mouth, Buddy shows us what’s possible when good people come together to do what’s right.

Share Buddy’s story to spread awareness, inspire change, and remind others that every dog — no matter how hurt — deserves a second chance.