A Fort Lauderdale Police K-9 that was shot by a burglary suspect over the weekend is set to be released from the pet hospital on Thursday after undergoing surgery, officials said.
According to Fort Lauderdale Police, K-9 Appie will be released from Blue Pearl Pet Hospital at 2 p.m.
Appie was doing well after the surgery late Tuesday night, officials said.
“We wish our K-9 hero the best of luck in his recovery and will continue to provide updates as soon as they become available,” the department said in a brief statement.
Fort Lauderdale PoliceFort Lauderdale Police
Appie
The shooting happened around 7:30 p.m. Saturday after officers responded to the 1600 block of Northwest 16th Court after receiving reports of a possible residential burglary, police said.
Officers set up a perimeter with assistance from the Broward Sheriff’s Office as the suspect fled the scene, police said.
Appie was sent to stop the suspect, who pulled out a gun and shot the dog in the shoulder, officials said.
The suspect was identified as 31-year-old Christian Bouie, and he was taken to the hospital for injuries he sustained after Appie bit him.
Bouie is facing several charges, including use of a deadly weapon on a police animal and possession of a weapon by a convicted felon.