Dog Restoration Project
In the spring of 2004, the dog statue was "attacked" in an act of vandalism. The body of the statue was chipped in several locations and the head broken off and stolen. The head was later recovered and was presented as evidence at the trial of the vandal responsible for the damage.
The statue was removed for a complete professional restoration and has been returned to in its place at Ottumwa Cemetery. These photos show some of the damage and restoration process.
Body pins provide strength and support for the 100+ year old statue.
At some point in the past, the dog's tail was broken off. (note missing tail in photo above)
Here the sculptor carves a new tail, and prepares it for attachment. 
What a sad face! This is how you repair a broken nose.
Large cracks and chips need to be patched or "plugged".
Preparing the pins and re-attaching the head.
Restoration Complete! Ready to return to its place at Ottumwa Cemetery.
