YONKERS, New York (WABC) -- A family in Westchester is getting the best holiday blessing - to have their injured dog home for Christmas.
The 3-year-old Shih Tzu, Charlie, was hit by a car this past week in New Rochelle, leaving his hind legs paralyzed.
What is even more incredible - a complete stranger spent thousands of dollars of his own money for the vet bills.
The Robledo family is calling it a Christmas miracle.
James Gallagher, a complete stranger to Cindy Robledo, helped rush Charlie to the hospital.
Gallagher, the owner of six dogs himself, gave $14,000 for Charlie's vet bills, which Cindy, unfortunately just did not have.
"I'm just happy the dog is okay - this has nothing to do with money, and I look at the children's faces, that says it all," Gallagher said.
Just days before Christmas, the family is getting another special gift.
"He's part of my family now - not just a stranger, but a friend, and that friendship will last forever," said Cindy.
Doctors are saying Charlie still has a rough road to recovery, but he is one lucky dog to be home for the holiday.
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