SAN DIEGO -- A police dog suffered stab wounds while pursuing a knife-wielding burglar outside a Mission Bay Park catering business, 10News reported.

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Officer Explains Gino's Condition

Gino (pictured, left) was rushed to a Mission Valley emergency animal hospital for treatment of a cuts and a nearly severed ear, said San Diego police Lt. Dave Elliott. He underwent surgery to reattach the ear Friday.

Police said 23-year-old transient Eric Gray burglarized Ranch Catering on Quivira Way at approximately 9:25 p.m. Thursday. Officers arrived at the business and found Gray outside holding a large knife, Elliott said.

Officers told the man to drop the 12-inch butcher knife, but he refused and challenged them, saying "come on," Elliott said.

When the burglar refused to surrender, Officer Gary Macphee, Gino's handler, released the dog, Eliott said.

"Gray began running and hitting the dog with the knife," Elliott said. "He cut the dog several times, almost severing his ear."

After the struggle, Gray dropped the knife and was taken into custody by police. He was taken to a hospital for treatment of dog bites to his leg.

Lt. Bill Nelson, who is in charge of K-9 unit, said Friday that veterinarians told him that Gino's prognoses is good.

Nelson also said that Macphee was very close to using deadly force on the suspect.

"The suspect is alive today because of the actions of Gino and his handler," Nelson said.

"He is an exceptional dog," he added.