A police officer, who is also a K9 handler, has been fired after he shot a Chihuahua after asking the dog's owner to speak with him.

Former Deputy Keenan Wallace was responding to a call on Friday, when he shot the small dog. Graphic video shared on social media that appears to be from from the scene shows an officer asking a man to "step to the road." At the time, two unleashed dogs appear to be barking in the yard. When he declines, the officer shoots the small dog in front of him. The dog can then be heard shrieking and rolling in the grass.

"I believe there were numerous opportunities to de-escalate the incident," Sheriff Tim Ryals said in a statement.

The dog, who goes by the name Reese's, suffered a broken jaw and shattered bones, according to the Arkansas Democrat Gazette. While the dog will likely suffer longterm affects from the shot, he's expected to recover.

Doug Canady, who rescued the dog, shared video of Reese's with a bandaged neck on Sunday, saying she will be going into surgery Monday.

"She’s doing well, considering all things," he said.

Wallace was called to the scene for an earlier dispute between Canady and a woman who allegedly pointed a gun at the small dog and Canady's house, the Gazette reports.

Ryals said the department is saddened about the incident and “apologize for any distress and disappointment this incident has caused anyone who was affected by this disheartening event.” He also said the department will keep Reese’s in its thoughts through her recovery.

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