Lend a Hand to Dexter

Do you have it in your heart to help a guy who's down on his luck?

Dexter, a poodle that's not yet 1, was rescued recently from a homeless encampment near Sacramento. He's being treated at Encina Veterinary Hospital in Walnut Creek for mange and an eye condition that will require surgery, says veterinarian Jill Christofferson.

The hospital is hoping to raise money for Dexter: "He has a long road of treatment ahead and every bit counts," the hospital says on its Facebook page.

Watch "Dexter's Story," with Christofferson holding the friendly little pup and explaining the medical treatment he is receiving.

To donate, visit the website for NorCal Poodle Rescue, which found Dexter and brought him to Encina Veterinary Hospital. 

NorCal Poodle Rescue is a group of volunteers who rescue poodles and poodle mixes and help people adopt them. The organization, based in Montara, primarily serves the Bay Area.

"We re-home all three varieties of poodles: toy, miniature and standard," the website says. "We respond to county shelters, humane societies, and individuals via this website and a phone hot line. Our rescue and adoption efforts often require veterinary medical care, fostering, boarding and training. Our poodles are spayed or neutered before placement."