December 23, 2007

OHIO – A Lorain County, Ohio family's pit bull is being called a hero after a drive-by shooting left two bullets lodged in the dog.

Levi Springer says he woke up early Sunday morning to the sound of gunfire – a noise he recognized from his time in the military.

What he heard were 15 gunshots hitting his home. Most were aimed at the room his female cousin was sleeping in, in the front of the house.

The woman was sleeping next to the family's puppy – which was between her and the wall. The dog suffered from shots to the hind leg and face.

The Springers rushed the dog to a vet, who determined it would be cheaper to euthanize the dog than to save him. But both Levi and his cousin immediately opted to keep the dog alive – grateful for his sacrifice.

The dog has been treated, but surgery for a bullet lodged in his eye is still needed. Because the family has a limited income, they're looking for a vet who can perform the operation for a lower price. The original vet quoted them at $1,000.

Levi Springer says he doesn't know why someone shot his home.

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