Earlier this week, 21 News spoke with the owner of Nikko, a dog who was stabbed outside a home on Helena Avenue in Youngstown.

In Nikko's own backyard, police say three children— ages five, seven, and twelve— reached through a hole in the fence to stab the dog. Nikko was leashed and could not get away. He was severely injured and taken to an emergency vet in Akron for treatment. Nikko's owner, Jamie Markovich, says she wasn't sure if he'd make it.

After days of around the clock veterinary care, Nikko returned home to his family Friday. But, he's not out of the woods just yet.

"He still needs to have another surgery," said Markovich. "He had a severe blow to the face, so he has some tooth damage and stitches. It's still going to be a ways. He has medicine he to take every six hours, pain meds, things to help with his stomach from him ingesting the glass. It's going to be quite a while."

Animal Charity has already raised more than $5,000 to help with Nikko's medical bills, but they are still accepting donations to help with the remainder of the bill. Those interested in donating can do so by clicking here or heading to the Animal Charity of Ohio website.

Nikko's family says they're grateful for the outpouring of support from the community.

"We've had people reaching out to us from multiple states away with sympathy for us, the whole situation," said Markovich. "Nikko is a family member. He's a great dog, we call him a gentle giant."

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