Shelter Pup 'Shaq' Needs Surgery: Fundraiser Underway

MARTINEZ, CA – "Shaq," a 70-pound, brindle pit-mix, is only 3 years old, but is physically declining due to two torn ACLs, according to Contra Costa County animal officials.

The big, ol' handsome boy, that thinks he's a lap dog and has been at the shelter for nearly a year, now is on "light-duty walks" at Contra Costa Animal Services' Martinez facility as "there are days he just can’t get up," states a GoFundMe campaign, Help Shaq Get Double ACL Surgery, set up this week to raise money for medical costs.

"Shaq needs your help!" shelter staff said in a social media post. "He came into our Martinez shelter with a slight limp, and after multiple sets of x-rays, our medical team has confirmed that he's suffering from two torn ACLs."

"Our friends at Underdog Animal Rescue have graciously started a fundraiser for Shaq so that we can raise the money to get him the surgery he needs," staff said. "We're beyond grateful for their help, and any help you or your friends are able to provide."

The double-surgery will cost roughly $6,000 -- and that is at a discounted rate, organizers said.

And after his surgery, Shaq will need at least a few months to heal -- in either a foster or permanent home -- as the shelter is not a good place for such surgical recovery.

"This sweet boy has been with us 11 months, and we would love for him to get his surgery, and then find his perfect forever home," officials said. "If you aren't able to donate, please share this post so that we can raise the money to help out Shaq!"

Two ways to donate:

1. GoFundMe link here.
2. Or go to Underdog Rescues post, click on photo and press donate button.

Shaq's bio here from Contra Costa Animal Services.

Watch video of Shaq:

• ALSO SEE: K-9 Officer Muzzy Passes Away In Pleasant Hill

--Images via GoFundMe