My Buddy

This week I have to dedicate to one of my top favorite dogs. There have only been three dogs at the shelter that I felt should've been mine. At the time of all three of them, I had a small, old dog who hated everything (people, other dogs, any life form really). We were afraid to bring any other dogs home because we didn't want to upset her.

However, this is Buddy! His name is very fitting.

Buddy came in as a stray with heartworm. If you don't know what that is, it's basically a parasitic roundworm that infects the heart. It's transferred from infect mosquitos. It is very costly to treat and very hard on the animals. It can be prevent with monthly preventatives. 

Heartworm took a toll on Buddy. He was so quiet and mild-mannered. We became buddies quickly as he needed extra TLC, and I have a soft spot for ones like him. 

We had a Tuesday night routine, and he knew it. As soon as he saw me in the kennel, he knew it was time. I would take him on a short walk around the building, brush his hair, and feed him a hotdog. This went on for months as we waited for his forever home. 

Eventually the bittersweet moment we were waiting for came, and he was adopted. His new owner was a sweet, older gentleman who was lonely as his dog has just passed on. They were a great match and still are to this day. We call at least once a year to check on my furry friend and his new family.

-Sam