Dog Remains In Hospital After Shooting

A dog shot this week by D.C. police remained in critical condition yesterday, and the animal's owners said they were unsure how they would afford thousands of dollars in bills for surgeries.

Sam, a 2-year-old German shepherd, was shot twice by an officer Tuesday night after police were called to his owners' home in the 800 block of Sheridan Street NW for a possible burglary. One bullet passed through the dog's chest, and another remains lodged in his neck, said officials at the Friendship Hospital for Animals.

Veterinarians examined Sam for potential neurological damage to his spine yesterday. They expect he will have to stay in the hospital for at least seven to 10 days, and he may need surgery to remove the bullet, which could cost up to $5,000, the hospital said.

Sam's owners, Isabel Moreno and his son Carlos Hernandez, were trying to raise funds yesterday to pay for the surgery. Doctors advised them to put Sam to sleep, but they want to try to save him, a family spokesman said.

The dog was shot after he ran into the alley behind the house and threatened officers who were investigating the burglary call, D.C. police said. Officials are investigating the shooting.