Woodland police dog wakes after being hit by car during pursuit

A Woodland police service dog severely injured after being hit by a car while chasing a suspect woke up after surgery Sunday, police said.

Peydro, a German shepherd, has demonstrated sensory and motor function in his rear legs and wagged his tail, police said in a news release. The release said the voice of his human partner, Officer Juan Barrera, also elicited response. The dog was transferred from intensive care to intermediate care at UC Davis Veterinary Hospital.

Peydro underwent surgery Saturday night to realign and decompress his spine. Surgeons removed several of his teeth and repaired fractures to his face and muzzle.

Peydro was injured Saturday morning when he and Barrera were chasing a suspected parole violator on North Street. Peydro followed the suspect, Marcos Hernandez, into the intersection of Walnut Street and nearly caught him before being hit by a southbound car, the release said.

The driver cooperated with officers, police said, and is not expected to be charged. Hernandez, 35, later turned himself in to Woodland police.

Police said Peydro’s recovery will require numerous surgeries and likely considerable rehabilitation. Anyone interested in assisting with his medical costs can contribute through the Foothills K9 Association, at www.foothillsk9.org.

This story was originally published May 29, 2016 at 3:43 PM with the headline "Woodland police dog wakes after being hit by car during pursuit."