An earlier Pet Tips ‘n’ Tales article entitled, Rescuing a “Buddy” shared how Alice, an 83-year-young house/pet sitter, sat for three weeks on the frozen winter's ground in order to earn the trust of a stray dog named Buddy who had been on the streets for over a year. The morning that she prayed for help, the dog came over and lay down next to her.
From that moment on, Buddy and Alice formed a deep bond. Sadly, with his large size and her retirement income, she made the heart-wrenching decision to surrender him to a Border Collie Rescue group.
Heartbroken and missing her “Buddy,” Alice phoned the rescue group and “talked to him” daily. Three weeks later, she phoned her daughter, Starr, who said, “I was waiting for your call. You and Buddy belong together.” They left at 11 AM, and arrived home the next morning, at 2 AM, with Buddy peacefully sleeping in the backseat.
How had Buddy’s fared those long weeks - without Alice? He imploded. He was devastated, didn’t eat and he pulled out his fur.
So, imagine his delight when his superhero arrived, once again, for him.
Alice’s friends knew how strongly the dog and woman were bonded. One friend paid for a fenced 20' X 15' doggy pen to keep Buddy safe when Alice is not home. Another friend bought him a bed and toys. (Buddy is such a gentle animal that a feral cat lays next to him in the pen.)
And if you are wondering about Buddy’s homecoming...
“He walked in the house happy as a lark with his tail wagging,” declared Alice. “Our four cats woke up greeting us like a ‘Welcome Home’ committee from the Animal Kingdom.”
“He loves his ‘Tiny’ three-and-a half pound Chihuahua brother!” said Joy. “After every nap, once he realizes he is not dreaming about being home, he smothers Tiny with wet kisses. He also plays and cuddles with our youngest cat.”
“Buddy is my second shadow. He won’t let me out of his sight,” admits Alice. “I can't move without him being glued to me. When we are out walking, I don’t need a leash because he is never more than two feet away. His adoration is deeply touching. We have been through so much and feel complete being back together. I have never seen a dog so attentive. I can’t cough or sneeze without him jumping up to check on me.
For a once homeless, starving dog, his manners are surprisingly refined. Tiny grabs the treats we hand him like a hungry crocodile, but Buddy takes his gently. He looks like a totally different dog now. He’s healed and his fur coat is gorgeous. He is so handsome. I sleep better and feel safer having him home. He offers more protection than Tiny, that’s for sure!”
It was obvious to everyone how devoted Alice and Buddy were to each other, so they are thrilled that Alice has her Buddy back, and Buddy has his Alice back.
