By: Contributing Reporter Francis Inabnet
Samford University’s Students’ mascot, Buxley, recently has been absent from campus-life due to injuries. On Friday, Feb. 14, he made an appearance on campus in a stroller for the first time this semester.
Buxley has gained much attraction from students since he was a pup. The English Bulldog is an influential figure for Samford Athletics and students alike. Not only does he make an appearance during the football team’s pregame “Bulldog Walk,” but he is often a friendly face to greet in transitions between classes. For most, Buxley is simultaneously a stress reliever and representative of school spirit.
Currently, he has two torn ACLs and a corneal ulcer in his right eye. Bill Kugelberg, Buxley’s owner, remains uncertain as to how the injuries occurred. However, he does recall that Buxley jumped off a bed and was limping a few days after.
During his surgery on his left ACL, his eye ruptured. Yet, his surgeon at Veterinary Orthopedic and Vision Center resolved the sudden complication. As a result of Buxley’s surgery, he is on eight different medications to minimize the pain and help with swelling.
He is also working diligently at Sound Animal Rehab and Fitness to regain his strength to walk and play.
A bulldog’s recovery time from an ACL tear in both knees would typically take around six to eight weeks according to Veterinarian Dr. Washington of the Standifer’s Animal Clinic in Homewood. After the surgery, several things can be done from laser therapy to acupuncture to hydrotherapy.
“We also have a gate where we have blocked him off from our other dog. His bed is in there, his food is in there. For a couple of weeks, we fed him with a spoon because he did not even want to stand up…so he’s been blocked off from everything,” Kugelberg said.
Luckily for the Kugelberg family, Buxley tends to not run around on his own.
“If you throw a ball, he will go chase it, but if he’s at home, he is laying around most of the time” said Kugelberg.
Students and athletes alike are eager to have their squishy companion return to campus.
“I think it is great to have a live mascot, to get people really excited and bring the Bulldog spirit to life,” said football player Ryan Oliver.
Rayf Vinson, a football player who is very fond of Buxley, wishes that the bulldog could be more involved with the team. Vinson wishes Buxley had his own doghouse on the side of the field at games.
“What the best part of it is, is when kids come up to him and say, ‘I miss my dog so much’, thank you for bringing him. I had a really bad day, thank you for bringing him,” said Kugelberg.
Students can donate to Buxley’s recovery using the link in Buxley’s Instagram.
Why was my comment not included in your story- very one sided and unprofessional journalism