CANTON -- "Hallelujah."

That was Christopher Small's reaction when Cherokee County authorities said they arrested the person who tied up his runaway dog and shot it three times in the head.

The husky named Normal is recovering from the May 30 shooting in Canton, but may need more surgery.

"I'm so happy," Small said. "Words could not describe how happy I am. The whole neighborhood is patting me on the back. Many of them are crying tears of joy."

Cherokee County Deputy Marshal Bobby Free said he spent most of the week tracking down the suspect, who was arrested Friday night. Authorities did not immediately identify the person.

Small said Normal ran away last Sunday and he and his wife Theresa spent hours searching for the dog before giving up for the night.

Monday morning, Small said he was awakened by gunshots from the woods behind his house.

He found Normal tied to a tree and bleeding but still alive.

The dog is recovering at a veterinary hospital. Small said Normal cannot eat yet and may need throat surgery.

But the dog will be less likely to run away in the future.