Deputy praised for comforting dog hit by car

KISSIMMEE, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - A sheriff's deputy in Osceola County, Florida is being praised for helping save a dog in a tough spot.

The Sheriff's Office shared a photo on Facebook of Deputy Josh Fiorelli, sitting by a the large blonde and white dog, covering it with his coat, and comforting it after the dog had been hit by a car Sunday in a Kissimmee neighborhood.

"Taking this dog under his wing, so to speak, and taking care of her until our officer could get there," said Osceola County Animal Shelter Director Kim Staton.

The sheriff and community leaders quickly began spreading the photo on social media and praising Fiorelli's dedication to helping the injured animal. The dog is now at the Animal Shelter where Staton says it has a long road to recovery ahead; a major injury to her leg.

"It's out of joint, her hip joint, so she'll have surgery on Thursday to have that repaired," said Staton.

The surgery and injuries could come with other complications, Staton said, but so far the dog is eating well, stable, and staff are hopeful she will recover.

So far, Staton said no owner has been identified nor were staff able to locate a microchip. She said if no one steps forward, and if the dog continues to recover well, she will likely go up for adoption.

The shelter is accepting donations to help pay the dog's medical bills and the medical bills of other dogs at the shelter on their website.