JAMUL, Calif. -- One family has hope even after it lost everything. As 10News digital correspondent Joe Little reports, that hope is being generated by the family dog.

Brownie, the three-year-old mix, has some tough days ahead.

"When he came in he was a little bit shockey," Kerri McMahon, DVM, of the Cuyamaca Animal Hospital said, "He had some burns on his front paws and both his front legs were broken."

Sisters Krystle and Kimmi Hurley found Brownie outside. His legs were swollen and he was obviously in pain. The dog, who was sometimes mistaken for a deer because he bounced around so much, wasn’t moving.

"If this dog doesn’t move then there’s definitely something wrong," owner Jen Hurley said.

There was something wrong. It started when Brownie’s family was evacuated as the Harris fire approached their Deerhorn Valley home. When they were evacuated again from the Jamul home they were staying at Brownie got spooked.

"I think he was just in a state of turmoil," Jen said.

Brownie broke both his legs and dislocated several bones.

"Even with surgery it may be a difficult time healing," said McMahon.

But Brownie’s spirits haven't been broken.

As for Krystle and Kimmi, they have no toys; no clothes; no home. Yet the girls find happiness knowing their family is together.

"He’s something else. He’s more part of the family than an animal," said David Hurley.

Brownie's surgery could cost as much as $6,600. An effort is underway to raise money to pay for his procedure.

Anyone interested in helping the family can contact: Cuyamaca Animal Hospital Attn: Ron Westberg 8802 Cuyamaca St., Suite B Santee, CA 92071 619-448-0707

Or e-mail the Hurleys at HurleyFam01@netzero.com