DENVER (CBS4) – A 6-month-old puppy is in an animal hospital after a man slashed its face when he claimed the dog bit him.

Matthew Davonn Weatherspoon is facing a possible charge of aggravated animal cruelty.

“Diamond,” an American bulldog, is recovering in an intensive care unit.

“She essentially received reconstructive surgery, not unlike what you would find in a human hospital,” Lauren Emil with Alameda East Veterinary Hospital said.

Diamond was rushed to Alameda East Vetertinary Hospital Monday morning with severe lacerations to her face, neck, abdomen and chest.

“You can’t help but have a case like this to pull your heartstrings,” Emil said. “She’s such a young dog.”

Denver police are not saying what led to her injuries, but they arrested Weatherspoon in connection.

Diamond has won over the staff at Alameda East.

“She’s an absolute doll, very sweet, and is giving kisses to the lead tech in the ICU.”

Her appetite is coming back and she’s constantly monitored for pain.

“(She) is happy to go on walks although you can tell she’s a little painful. She just wants to crawl in the lap of people who take care of her.”

Despite the stitches and a cast, Diamond’s prognosis is good.

“It seems like Diamond should live a normal life as she recovers from her physical wounds.”

But it’s her mental wounds that could take a little more time.

“We’re all rooting for her to have a really positive recovery and a real good life from here forward.”