MOSES LAKE - "Baby Boy," the dog shot Monday morning in Moses Lake, is recovering better than expected and returned home Wednesday thanks to community donations to pay for medical care.

One of the dog's owner, Mavis Barnett, said she was thankful for all the people who called in with donations. Another owner, Samantra Dickerson, said one person donated at least $200 alone.

Barnett said doctors provided pain medication for her dog and he has to be monitored during the next few weeks to see if surgery will still be required. Dr. Dick Maier, at the Pioneer Veterinary Clinic in Moses Lake, said he is not recommending surgery at this time. The dog was able to eat Wednesday for the first time since the incident.

Maier said enough money was donated to pay for the medical costs so far and some funds are left over just in case surgery is needed.

If surgery is not required, staff from the Pioneer Veterinary clinic will be contacting those who donated for "Baby Boy" to determine what they would like done with their donation. A special account has been set up for "Baby Boy" and funds will be held for about a month before donors are contacted.

The dog was shot Monday morning near Knolls Vista Drive in Moses Lake after the dog was let out the backdoor of Dickerson's home and likely ran into the neighborhood. Dickerson said the dog came back minutes later and he was bleeding from his side.

Moses Lake police have not been able to identify any suspects at this time but have made contact with several neighbors regarding the incident, according to Capt. Dave Sands.