How a Rescued Dog Stole the Show at Graduation
The graduates at Iowa State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine were emotionally prepared for their ceremony. However, no one could have foreseen the heartwarming moment when Honey, a small rescue dog, made her grand entrance on stage. This unexpected appearance of the dog, once fighting for her life, was a testament to resilience and the impact of dedicated veterinary care.
Months earlier, Honey’s future looked bleak. On Christmas Eve, she was brought to Iowa State’s Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center after a car hit her in Des Moines. Honey’s injuries were severe: multiple skull fractures, damaged sinuses, and traumatic brain injuries. Her situation was dire, and immediate care was essential.
Laura Bradner, Honey’s foster mom, recalls her critical condition upon arrival. Honey belonged to a homeless man who, unable to afford the necessary treatment, made the heart-wrenching decision to surrender her for a chance at survival rather than face euthanasia.
The veterinary team sprang into action, stabilizing Honey while assessing the extent of her injuries. According to Dr. Dan Grooms, Dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine, managing Honey’s brain trauma was one of the most significant challenges they faced.
For those working through the holiday period, Honey transcended the status of a mere emergency case. She symbolized determination and hope. Her presence at graduation was incredibly moving for the students who had invested countless hours in her care.
A Long Journey to Recovery
Honey’s journey of healing involved months of surgeries, treatments, and rehabilitation. The staff at Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center didn’t work alone. They were supported by Critter Crusaders of Cedar Rapids, a nonprofit dedicated to funding rescue and shelter animal care across Iowa.
Jan Erceg, the founder of Critter Crusaders, commented on the rapid response required for cases like Honey’s: “We guide the care and provide funding for these emergency situations. Honey was one of those cases where everyone came together very quickly.” To date, the organization has raised over $27,000 for Honey’s care.
Through rehabilitation sessions five days a week, Honey gradually regained her strength and learned to walk again. What remained constant was her gentle spirit. Bradner notes, “She has the sweetest disposition. You can take her anywhere, and she just goes with the flow.”
Honey’s serene presence at the graduation ceremony was particularly poignant for the veterinary students who had witnessed her journey from vulnerability to vitality. Dr. Grooms remarked that Honey’s story illustrated the profound impact veterinarians can have on both animals and the people who cherish them.
As Honey stood before the applauding audience, her bright eyes and calm demeanor told a story of triumph over adversity. Bradner believes that Honey is on the brink of completing her recovery journey within the next month. Her memorable walk onto the graduation stage is a proud testament to her astonishing journey of healing and the compassionate efforts of those who refused to give up on her.
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