Life With Bucky

 

Bucky and me going to the suburbs

Back in February I saw that Cairn Terrier Rescue needed a ride for a little white dog named Bucky. Bucky had to leave his adopted home in Chicago and go out to a foster home along the Fox River. Bucky had cancer and was to have his right fore-limb amputated. It was impossible for the elderly lady who had adopted him to deal with all the vet visits and care he needed, so I messaged the rescue that I could be his chauffer. They had given Scout to me seven years earlier, and I felt I owed them something. Even though Scout turned out to be a bossy little girl who over indulges on cookies and food, I love having her with me. I picked Bucky up, strapped him into the backseat of my car, and off we went. At the very first stoplight I looked into the rear view mirror and saw his innocent little face staring right back at me.

About one month after that trip with Bucky, Shell Lewis from the rescue, texted me about Bucky. She spelled out exactly what was going on with him and what he needed. Then she asked if I could possibly foster him during his medical issues. I texted back one word, "Yes". I had fallen in love with that little dog during our short trip out to the suburbs. I couldn't say no.

He has been a joy to have here for the last two months. Scout likes the company, and who doesn't love two sets of eyes staring at you while you dish out dog food and walking down the street with two bags of dog shit in your hand? Unfortunately the inevitable has come. Bucky has been getting less active and two days ago he started having trouble with the stairs. Also, yesterday he did not want to go for a walk and instead spent the entire day under my bed. It seems that Bucky was crashing, and I should be making plans. I knew what I was getting into. This morning I got up expecting things to be worse, but Bucky got up, went outside and peed (I carried him), ate with Scout, and then went for a walk with me and Scout. It's a miracle! No, I'm not stupid. I've seen dogs bounce back like this before. He has cancer that has spread to his lungs and lymph glands. It is incurable. But hell, I got another day with Bucky and so far it's been a good day.