Our abandoned "Buddy"

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Everyone knows that dogs are man's best friend. Yesterday I was reminded of what some animals go through by owners who have no business owning anything that needs care and love and that depend on us 100%.

Our new "buddy," a pit bull mix, was lost and abandoned. It had been running around Lake Osborne Heights and ended up in an alcove behind my condo building yesterday. No tag, no chip, no ID. Days ago, I received the e-mail notification from Robert Waples, president of Lake Osborne Heights, to be on the look-out for him. He is the sweetest dog imaginable and that's a lot to say coming from me as I have a fear of pit bulls. He had bite marks on his small frame and you knew by looking at him that he had not eaten in awhile...skinny with ribs sticking out but he didn't stop wagging his tail. Katie came down to feed him and Helen watched over him as I was making frantic phone calls to find out what to do.

And then I remembered...I had saved a leash that belonged to my dog Charlie who died in 2004. There must have been some reason why I saved that leash because yesterday it was used to transport the abandoned dog to Animal Care and Control by someone who cares a lot about animals too. As he was being driven out of our parking lot, we saw him give the driver a lick on the cheek.

They are looking after "Buddy." We don't know his name but that's as good as any. His wounds are being treated; he will be neutered; his overall care is now in their hands. He was accepted to their adoption program. If you want to give a donation or adopt a really sweet dog, please call Animal Care and Control at 233-1200 and ask for doggy A1610724. He needs a loving home and they have a special adoption price right now.