An old man brought his dog in to be put down because he couldn’t afford to save his pet. Seeing the man’s tears and the dog’s sadness, the vet made the only right decision…
They say money doesn’t buy happiness, but sometimes it determines our fate. The elderly man didn’t have a single penny to spare when the bill came for his four-legged friend’s life.
The vet’s office was quiet. The veterinarian observed the pair: a mixed-breed dog lying on the table and the old man leaning over, absentmindedly petting its ear. The only sounds were the dog’s labored breaths and the man’s quiet sobs. The elderly gentleman couldn’t bear to part with his friend and wept quietly.
Andrew Smith, the young veterinarian, frequently witnessed these deeply emotional moments when people faced the decision to put down their pets. It was understandable, as people form deep bonds with their animal companions. But he sensed that this was a special case.
He recalled the first time he saw the pair at his door. It was three days ago. The quiet old man had brought his 9-year-old dog, Buddy, for an urgent visit. The dog hadn’t been able to stand for two days, and the elderly man was genuinely worried. As he explained, other than Buddy, he had no one else.
Andrew Smith examined the dog. Indeed, Buddy had a severe infection that required immediate and costly treatment. Without it, the dog would face a painful end. “Therefore,” the vet had said dryly, “if you’re not going to treat the dog, it would be more humane to put him down.” It was easy now for Andrew Smith to imagine the man’s feelings at that moment, but back then, the young vet hadn’t appreciated them.
Following the vet’s words, the old man’s trembling hands spilled loose change and crumpled banknotes onto the table—a payment for services. He gently picked up his dog and left. Today, he appeared again at the vet’s door. “I’m sorry, doctor, I could only gather enough money for euthanasia,” the elderly client murmured, lowering his gaze.
And now, as the old man asked for five more minutes to say goodbye to his friend, Andrew Smith watched the pair and couldn’t comprehend such unfairness in the world. Often, those with vast wealth are indifferent to living creatures, yet here was a poor old man and a dying mongrel overflowing with emotion.
A lump formed in the young vet’s throat. He approached the man and placed a hand on his shoulder. “I’ll treat him,” he said in a trembling voice, “I’ll cover the cost. Buddy’s not old yet. He’ll chase around some more.” Andrew felt the silent sobs as the elderly man’s shoulders shook beneath his hand.
A week later, Buddy was standing firmly. The treatment and attentive care had worked. The young vet felt happy. Maybe he had done only a small thing for the unfortunate old man and his mixed-breed dog, but in truth, it was a great and kind-hearted act.
Thankfully, the world has compassionate and empathetic people!
