“He’s going to break your heart,” they said. Buster was an emergency transfer from a local shelter. He had been found stray and unable to use his back legs. His fate, if he stayed at the shelter, was clear. Homeward Bound – on Independence Day – was his last chance.
His transport angel said he looked like he had given up. She thought he would just sleep on the long journey to safety. But after he was lifted into the van and they got underway, he used every ounce of strength he had left to crawl to her side.
He saw the Doc upon his arrival, and because we don’t just give up, started him on meds even though his legs showed significant neurological issues including the apparent loss of sensation. Carolyn and Lori set about removing the foxtails covering his belly and then put him in a dog wheelchair for a trip to the pool where he was outfitted with a doggy life jacket. He had been out for days in 100+ weather. The water would feel fine.
Lori and Buster. Photo Credit: Rob Kessel
After an assisted float, an exhausted Buster was carried back to the office on a stretcher. “Office Dog” is a highly coveted designation and Buster must have been pretty happy with all the attention having booted another dog from the appointed position.
Sometimes, small miracles happen when dogs know that they are finally safe. With nearly everyone departed, Lori went to get some towels. When she turned around, look who she saw standing at the door and staring.
He walked like “a drunken sailor,” she said – but he walked!
The next day, he walked his way to the pool for another assisted swim, and then a roll in the yard. By the weekend, he was swimming life jacket-free.
We don’t know his true age, but he is a senior citizen for sure.
Lori has been out daily to get him in the pool in hopes of strengthening those back legs. Now, he only gets this “assistance” when she has put him through the paces.
Who knows what brought him to that abandoned place or what his life was like before? Who knows if this is a short-lived miracle or a hoped-for second chapter?
But he is a gentle, sweet soul; kind to other dogs; and clearly enjoying the company of loving human friends.
Buster may still break our heart someday – but not before filling it with joy.
Little miracles do happen – in safety.
Gardens For Goldens 
I LOVED this…thank you and thanks to all who are helping pups like Buster.
Way to go Lori and Buster! Here’s hoping Buster enjoys every single day at your wonderful facility.
Buster, you most definitely are a heartbreaker. You are amazing!
Beautiful story! Thank you to all those who helped save this amazing baby!
What a wonderful story. I hope the next chapters just get better and better. ❤️
Buster and Lori are one amazing team! Keep going both of you.
Yes, a little (or maybe huge) miracle for Buster. When you know someone believes in you, miracles become possible. Beautiful story; you go, Buster! Thank you, Lori.
Buster you are a handsome man. You are a true miracle. I can’t wait to meet you and give you a big hug and kiss. Thank you to those who have helped you get to where you are.
What a wonderful story. Buster, I hope you gain control of your rear legs soon so you can enjoy life once again. God Bless you and all the wonderful people who are helping you.
Oh! My! Dog! Buster is such a handsome boy! I’m glad he ended up safe and sound with all of you!!! I hope he keeps having little miracles every day!!
You all specialize in miracles, which is a wonderful thing.
Be happy sweet Buster, you are safe now :o) xxx
Though it has its tearjerker moments, that is a wonderful story, and a true testament to the power of compassion. Thank you to all who are giving this beautiful boy the love and attention he deserves. You make the world a better place.
I am so blessed to be a part of an amazing organization that has not only the facilities and resources to care for dogs like Buster but the dedicated and devoted people to make him feel loved daily, to say “let’s try”, and to tell his story so beautifully!! My heart is full ❤❤❤
And we are so blessed that you are a part of this amazing team!
What a sweet boy. The photos with Buster and Lori take my breath away. Much love to both of them.
Wow! Tears of joy falling as I read this wonderful story! Thank you all for loving him and thank you, Lori, for teaching Buster to swim and work those legs! He’s a gorgeous ‘older man’, just my type! I so wish I could take him in, but Woody is the jealous type and I’d be in deep doo-doo if I tried it. 😦 But he’s a doll! Again, thank you for showing him with the love he needs and deserves ❤