Buttercup

Buttercup, 3 1/2 pounds, and her best friend, Westley, 6 pounds, both about 12 years old, came into the shelter as strays. The shelter was anxious to keep the frightened little duo together, so Old Dog Haven was contacted.

Gentle little Buttercup, was so tiny that it was impossible to determine if she had a spay scar. It was suspected she had never been spayed, though, as she also had a mammary mass. An ultrasound soon confirmed that she was intact. So, the first line of business for the petite pup was surgery, both for the spay and the mass removal. Surgery on a dog this tiny is tricky, doubly so for one of advanced age. But Buttercup pulled through like the plucky little princess she is, and, in a stroke of good luck, the tumor turned out to be benign. And, of course, all of her care was paid for by Old Dog Haven. Buttercup has spent the last several months following her surgery recovering both her health and her spirit. Since the little girl is totally toothless, she sometimes has trouble holding food in her mouth.  But with a little help, she has now gained weight.  Instead of a ribby 3 1/2 pounds, she now weighs in at over four pounds!

Buttercup has changed in more than just weight. When she first arrived, she would rarely move from the couch unless a warm lap was available. Now, feeling much healthier and adventurous, she is the first one up and barking when she sees her leash. Her tiny tail vibrating, she will lead the way on her daily walk. Not that she has given up on laps – whenever possible, little Buttercup will seek out a willing person, snuggle up to their chest, and tickle their chin with tiny kisses.

Just a few months ago, it appeared that little Buttercup’s story would end sadly. She was frail, frightened, and facing surgery that could have been too much for her tiny, aging body. But thanks to Old Dog Haven and the care they provide, everything changed.  Today, Buttercup is thriving—her tail wagging with excitement, her personality blooming, and she will be safe and loved for the rest of her life. This little princess finally has her happily ever after.

Buttercup and Westley