For the Love of A Dog

Most people will think we are insane, and only a few, a very small minority will understand. 

Lance and I adopted a rescue dog named Mr. Yellow Pants in December 2011.  I had seen his story on the rescue site, and I was well aware that he was a "special needs" dog.  He had a torn ACL type tear on his leg.  He was getting around well enough, but every once in awhile, he would feel pain from the injury.  He was not easily adoptable.  In fact, he was at his foster mother's home for over two months and only one family (other than ours) expressed an interest.

I remember the first time we met Buddy.  He was very warm towards us and not at all territorial.  We adopted him immediately.  However, it was not love at first site. Buddy had to grow on us. In fact, my affections had to grow for every dog I have ever owned.  Buddy was not different.

We have been his parents for almost two years, and we love him so much.  Unfortunately, his leg has gotten progressively worse.  He is at the point where he cannot make it up the stairs without difficulty.  However, he can tolerate the pain more than he can tolerate being alone.  Buddy cries and cries and cries when he is left alone so Lance and I have to coax him up the stairs or we have to sit with him.  He will not shut up until he is no longer alone.  He does not cry from the pain.  He cries because he cannot stand to be without his mommy and daddy.

We took him to see an orthopedic surgeon last week and were told that Buddy requires surgery.  If we do not perform the surgery, his condition will worsen quickly.  He is already in pain, and we have to give him pain medication daily.

So here is the difficult decision.....the surgery is estimated to be around $3600 - $3800.  Buddy is only 5 years old. If we elect to NOT have the surgery, he would probably need to be put down because his condition is progressive.  Lance and I, without reservation or discussion, are going to pay for the surgery. We will have to make some immediate lifestyle modifications to accommodate this unexpected expense, but it is so worth it.  People, I think, have this misconception that Lance and I are rolling in dough, and I know us spending $4000 on a dog's leg is not going to dispel that myth.  The truth is we are comfortable, but we are far from being wealthy.  We have to budget and be frugal at times (i.e. brown bag lunches instead of going out).  Lance was ready to get a dinghy, but this ambition will be delayed momentarily.

I know most people will gasp at our decision, but then most do not know the bond that can develop between a dog and man.  Buddy has given us so much joy....so much unconditional love.  Yes, the booger has caused us some headache too.  He has chewed up two beds, about 10 pillows, shoes, footballs...you name it.  He has made Lance save his butt many times....but....regardless, he loves us no matter who we are...what we do...what kind of day we had....how we feel.....He is our baby, and if we can have another 7 years with him then what is $4000?

We love our Buddy.  Money can be replaced, but there is only one Budster.....

The surgery is scheduled for Thursday, October 10.  Please keep little Budster in your thoughts and prayers.

Buddy Yellow Pants Wade