CORONA — The Pomeranian puppy that was in its owner's backpack when she was hit by a Parks Department garbage truck last week is back home — and he'll have some of his hospital bill paid for thanks to an online fundraiser that raked in more than $6,000, his vet said.
Charlie was tucked inside owner Stefanie Campos' bag as she rode her bike on 104th Street and 43rd Avenue at 5:10 p.m. on Aug. 21 when they were hit by the truck, according to the FDNY.
Firefighters from Engine 289 and Ladder 138, who were on their way to a nearby water main break, helped the pair after being flagged down, officials said.
Campos was found lying on the street and the bloodied puppy was found nearby.
Sources said Campos was riding with her dog the wrong way on a one-way street, weaving through traffic when the truck hit her as it was turning.
The young woman was taken to Elmhurst Hospital in stable condition and has been released, according to officials.
Charlie was brought to a vet a few blocks away, riding on the lap of a firefighter.
When doctors there said they couldn't treat him due to the extent of his injuries to his hips and legs, Charlie was brought to BluePearl Veterinary Partners Specialty and Emergency Hospital in Forest Hills.
There he underwent surgery on his hips, and his left hind leg was splinted, according to Paul Miranda, the practice manager at BluePearl.
An online fundraiser called "Save Charlie" brought in more than $6,700 — boosted by anonymous donations of $5,000 and $1,000.
The Parks Department said it is still investigating the accident. There have been no summonses or charges issued in connection to the crash, police said.
