Warmhearted Boston police officers never barked about whipping out their wallets this morning when a puppy was shot in Dorchester and needed emergency surgery in hopes of saving its leg.

The adult victim was also shot during the 1 a.m. incident on McClellan Street. The victim's injury is not life-threatening, Boston Police Department spokesman Officer Stephen McNulty said.

The hunt is still on for suspects.

In the meantime, McNulty said two officers rushed the injured dog and its owner to the MSPCA, but when the owner had no means to pay for the 10-month-old mixed breed's care, McNulty said, "The officers offered to put down their cards. A sergeant arrived on scene and put his down instead.

"The dog remains hospitalized and the sergeant continues to approve all charges, up over $1,500 so far. They will pass the hat around at (District) B-3 to pitch in to cover the costs," McNulty said, "and may also accept donations for the dog via a non-profit."

Developing ….