MISSION VIEJO (CBSLA.com) — A 1-year-old German Shepherd named “Dickens” is being called a Christmas miracle.

The dog was struck by a car and suffered injuries so serious that the Orange County Animal Shelter arranged to have him put down.

(credit: Coastal German Shepherd Rescue)

The dog had no tags, no microchip and no one came forward to claim him.

Coastal German Shepherd Rescue (CGSR) saved Dickens just in time.

Rescue volunteer Gary Macheske brought Dickens to the Alicia Pet Care Clinic, where Dr. Matthew Wheaton will perform the surgeries that will help the dog heal.

“We always bring our most difficult cases to him, because he always gets the dog better,” Macheske said.

Wheaton said he will have to amputate Dickens’ front left leg Tuesday.

“He ripped the nerve bundle coming out of his armpit, which created a dead leg,” the veterinarian said. “It’s not a leg that can function, neurologically.”

Dickens is expected to make a full recovery and rescuers hope the sweet pooch will have a new home in time for the holidays.

“He’s an old soul,” Wheaton said. “He’s going to be a fantastic pet for someone.”

To donate to the Coastal German Shepherd Rescue or to submit an adoption application for Dickens visit www.coastalgsr.org.