SAN DIEGO - A dog found this week with a gunshot wound to the chest was in critical condition Tuesday with an uncertain prognosis, officials said.
The 40-pound retriever mix dog was discovered motionless on Viejas Grade Road Monday by Eladia Espinoza, a medical assistant who was on her way to work.
"I could not just drive away and go about my day. I knew there was something wrong with the dog," said Espinoza. "I noticed the blood right away, and my heart just sank. It was horrible."
County of San Diego Department of Animal Services Lt. Harold Holmes said the dog was taken to an emergency veterinary clinic in Mission Valley to be treated for his injuries.
"We are not 100 percent sure it was a gunshot, but it was a through-and-through penetrating wound, and most likely a gunshot," Holmes said. "It's going to need extensive medical care that's expensive."
Officials said the dog is known to run loose near the casino and may have an owner due to its friendly demeanor.
"It was very hurtful to see that someone would shoot a dog and just leave it on the side of the road or just shoot a dog period," Espinoza said.
The dog’s condition as of this morning is still critical and its prognosis is extremely guarded," Department of Animal Services spokesman Daniel DeSousa said. "The dog is receiving the best veterinary care possible."
Donations to help pay for the dog's surgery can be made by contacting County Animal Services.
