MEDIA, Pa. (CBS) — K-9 Elli is just four years old, so the news that she needed a hip replacement surgery was a bit of a shock. Still, if anyone knows how crucial it is, it’s Delaware County Sheriff Joseph McGinn.

“I had my hip replaced last April. And I know how important the therapy part of that is. It’s probably the most important thing,” McGinn says.

McGinn says the services that Elli provides to the county are extremely valuable. “Not only is the service as far as the Delaware County Courthouse complex, but Elli is called out to other agencies as well.”

McGinn says the nation’s economic downturn has affected every municipal government in the nation, and Delaware County is no exception. He says the community has rallied around and donated money, but more is needed. If you’d like to donate to the cause, please send checks to:

Attn: K-9 Elli Fund
Delaware County Pa. Sheriff’s Reserve Unit
50 S. Providence Rd.
Media, Pa. 19063

All donations are tax deductible.

Reported by Michelle Durham, KYW Newsradio 1060