SAN DIEGO (CBS 8) - A sailor's dog is getting some rest after undergoing a much needed surgery.
We first told you about Derek Emter and his dog earlier this month. It wasn't too long ago that he had just come back from deployment and got one heck of a home coming from his dog Perseus.
"It was good to see him and at the same time, I felt bad for him, I wanted to make sure he gets what he needs" said Derek Emter.
What Perseus needed was surgery for a mass cell tumor near his shoulder. However, with a wife and a kid to support and another one on the way, it wasn't in the cards for Derek.
A few weeks ago, CBS News 8 shared Derek's story and shortly afterwards, people were offering to help.
"Within minutes, people were donating left and right. The people of San Diego were just incredible."
Doctor Robert Wishner and the clinic he works at, Snug Pet Resort, offered to help for free.
"By taking the tumor off now, when it's limited in it's effects, we are eliminating all the future ramifications he would have, maybe extending his life by years" said Wishner.
"I couldn't thank him enough for doing this" said Emter.
What Derek can't seem to get over is the generosity of the people of San Diego. So, he wanted to say thanks for the memories they've made possible.
"What I am looking forward to, is Perseus being able to go home healthy and being able to play with my daughter for years to come."