Five Months from Surgery

It is August already and five months since the hip dysplasia surgery that brought new life to Little Buddy. It is almost hard to remember what we went through now that recovery is more or less complete. The history has been documented here in the Blog, and I am grateful for all the reminders of the struggle he went through. It would be easy to forget.

Today I have a lively, healthy and very active dog. Very affectionate and loving and always, always giving me that “Thank You for Rescuing Me” look. A year ago, he was a crazy little puppy, mainly concerned with chewing everything I owned. He could run then with his bunny-hopping gallop, but even that early on you could see his handicap.

Now he has come into his own and developed his own personality separate from Princess. He has a mind of his own and sometimes he is very very stubborn. But for the most part he is sweet and cooperative. He is quite vocal and often sings along when Windy plays the guitar.

He sleeps through the night now and no cries of pain. He enjoys his favorite toys: his “Binky” (a larger-than-life pacifier), Puff the Magic Dragon (squeaky toy with squeaker still intact!), a piece of rope with knots in it (?), and his knobby dent-a-bone.

He has endeared himself to all the neighbors and folks along our walking route. All have watched his progress and applauded his efforts. The kids who play near-by are his favorites.

In mid-September we will return to Dr. Ost for a six-month checkup. At that time my attention will turn to Princess who has been a bit neglected through all this. She will start Animal Assisted Therapy Training and hopefully she and I will become a volunteer team to visit patients in hospitals and nursing homes. Buddy is not ready for that yet, but maybe next year.