Alex's Old Buddy

what happens

Alex takes ownership of his old dog, Buddy, who has been living at his sister's place in the country. Buddy is now 19 and Alex wants to spend as much time with him as possible. The dog is lovable but at his advanced age, requires constant care, and Alex soon is taking Buddy with him everywhere including the cab. The gang soon sees that Buddy is not doing very well and gently suggest that Alex consider putting him to sleep, but Alex refuses. Jim suggests that Alex get Buddy to do his old trick (playing dead) to determine his wellness. Buddy does the trick successfully, although gives the gang a scare when he doesn't get up right away and they really think he may be dead (thankfully, he turns out to be okay). However, the next time the gang sees Alex, he doesn't have Buddy with him, and Alex says that he had to take Buddy to the vet where he died. Louie ushers everyone out of the garage so Alex can grieve alone. With everyone gone, the stoic Alex cries as the episode ends.

who made it

directed

Richard Sakai

written

Sam Simon, Ken Estin

guest cast

Billed for this episode only — the turn people remember an episode for.

• J. Alan Thomas as Jeff Bennett
• Judith Marie-Bergan as Shawn
• John Hancock as Dr. Brandon
• FFritz Hess as Cab Driver (uncredited)
• VVirginia Kennedy as Cab Driver (uncredited)
• JJoyce Goldman as Cab Driver (uncredited)
• RRobert Bakanic as Cab Driver (uncredited)
• EElliot Broones as Cab Driver (uncredited)