Bud nearly died several times in his early life, between exposure to cold and heat, food deprivation, heartworm, and other diseases. Getting him out of Arkansas and up to us took six months and more than $1,000 to get him out of vet care there and home to us.

Today is the time for his blood work and shots. He was a stoic.

Bud was a wreck when he came here; he is proper at home and healthy. Dr. Fariello, who saw him when he came, said he was in terrific shape, had a great heartbeat, perfect weight, and intense breathing. She said he couldn’t be better and was a long, long way away from the shape he was in when he arrived.

Bud is the calmest of dogs when it comes to seeing Dr. Fariello, perhaps because he spent a year or two visiting a vet to get well enough to travel. He was such a trembling mess when he got here. Now he is the Little King of Bedlam Farm, he and Zip are out two strongest personalities. We are always relieved to know he’s strong and healthy.

Bud loves to ride shotgun in the center seat, where he can look out and see the world. He is seven years old and is slowing down a bit. He likes to sit in my lap and sleep when I’m watching a mystery. He’s a good and brave boy. He’s no stranger to veterinary care.

Zinnia is next up for her annual check-up and she is much more a sissy than Bud, Zinnia tries to run out of the vet’s office if she can. Bud is quiet and calm for his needles and bloodwork.

We are grateful to Dr. Fariello. She has been our vet for years; she is the best imaginable. She has a tremendous and loving staff, and it feels like family when we go there. Three of Red’s photos are hanging on her walls. We’re glad to have gotten Bud to us; he’s a great, loving dog who deserves better.