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The dog, named Chance by veterinary staff, is no longer being kept in an oxygen chamber.

According to the vet staff, Chance is eating and drinking on his own and is no longer receiving IV fluids.

A new set of X-rays will be taken Thursday to check on how the dog’s lungs are doing. If everything looks good, Chance will be moved to the Animal Shelter on Gaines Street Friday.

The unidentified owner of Chance saw her dog on TV and identified him at the VCA Emergency Animal Hospital in Mission Valley on Tuesday.

The woman chose to relinquish her rights to the dog to the county. Animal services officials will continue to provide care for the dog.

Animal services officials said a passerby and a Viejas firefighter spotted the dog and stopped to help.

"He was just laying there unattended and abandoned," said Lt. Harold Holmes, who is with the San Diego County Animal Services. "It's very disturbing to treat an animal so cruelly and to hurt a defenseless animal."

Officials said the dog -- whose wound went through his chest and punctured his lung -- was taken to an emergency veterinary clinic where he was treated.

According to officials, the dog was seen running loose near the casino and the Viejas fire station for the past three days.

"Even if the animal was running loose, you can call us," said Holmes. "There are better ways to deal with it than to harm an animal."

Animal services officials said they do not know who shot the dog. The dog had no tags and no microchip.

Whoever shot the dog could face felony animal cruelty charges.

Investigators said the dog was in shock but appeared very friendly and trusting.

Animal services officials said the dog is currently not up for adoption due to his condition.

If the dog's condition improves, the county will set up an application process for those interested in adopting him.

Donations to the dog's care can be made through the San Diego County Animal Services Spirit Fund.

Those wishing to donate may also visit any of the county's three shelters.

If sending a check, please note "Spirit Fund" in the memo field.

Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to an arrest in the case. San Diego Animal Advocates is offering a reward of up to $2,000 for information leading to an arrest and conviction in the case.

Anyone with information is urged to call San Diego County Animal Services at 619-236-2341 or Crime Stopper's tip line at 888-580-8477. Crime Stoppers also takes email/text message tips via www.sdcrimestoppers.com.