POWELLSVILLE – Despite his diminutive stature, little “Snoopy” is one tough critter.

The tiny Dachshund, who was seriously injured Sunday when he and his owner were attacked by a Pit Bull, is slowly recovering at Powellsville Pet Clinic.

Dr. Cheryl Powell, the Clinic’s owner, told the Roanoke-Chowan News-Herald on Wednesday afternoon that “Snoopy” is in critical, but stable condition.

“He underwent four hours of fairly intense surgery Sunday night,” Dr. Powell said. “He had puncture wounds to his stomach, spleen and liver.”

Powell said it rook 75 staples to close “Snoopy’s” wounds. She also had to insert three drain tubes to assist his little body.

“A lot of people have been calling our office to check on his condition,” Powell stated. “It’s evident there’s many people out there that really love and care for animals and are concerned about Snoopy’s recovery.”

Powell said she received approval from the Baker family to release such information.

In the meantime, Powell said her office will accept donations to help Ruby Baker, Snoopy’s owner who was also injured in the attack, offset the medical bills.

“Mrs. Baker is a lady that’s living on a fixed income,” Powell said. “We’ve already had some individuals to step forward and donate money to help take care of Snoopy.”

Those wishing to make a donation can send checks to Snoopy Baker, c/o Powellsville Pet Clinic, PO Box 159, Powellsville, NC 27967. Powell said all donations will be credited in full to Mrs. Baker’s account.

Powell said “Snoopy” will remain in her care for about one more week.

She also praised the efforts of Hertford County EMT’s who were at the scene shortly after Sunday’s attack.

“In my opinion they don’t get enough accolades for the work they do,” Powell stressed. “In this particular case, these EMT’s were able to bandage Snoopy and attend to Mrs. Baker as well. Without that immediate medical attention paid to Snoopy, I feel that he would have never made it here alive.”

Baker was hospitalized for bites to her hand and is now at home recovering from the incident.

Ahoskie Police Chief Troy Fitzhugh said his department and Hertford County Animal Control have the attack under investigation. Fitzhugh said charges are pending against the owner of the Pit Bull, which remains impounded by Hertford County Animal Control.

The attack occurred in the parking lot of the Roanoke-Chowan News-Herald. Baker, who lives a block away from the newspaper’s office, walks her dog daily through the RCNH lot. “Snoopy” is always kept on a leash, as required by Ahoskie law, during his daily walks.

Fitzhugh said two Pit Bulls approached Baker.

“One of the two became aggressive and attacked Mrs. Baker and her dog, resulting in injuries that required both to seek medical attention,” Fitzhugh said.