A dog currently in a Long Island shelter has been through a bit of a rough life, but a little girl from Long Island is trying to help as the dog awaits her new family.

Godiva and her family entered a crowded North Carolina shelter after living outdoors, but later the Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation took them in.

But once on Long Island, the shelter noticed Godiva was a bit different -- she was much smaller than her siblings. They soon found she had a hard time eating, with food regurgitating out of her nose and mouth.

Godiva was diagnosed with congenital megaesophagus, which the animal shelter says is a disorder that impedes the ability to swallow food due to the lack of muscle tone and motility in the esophagus. She was born with the condition and surgery would not improve the situation.

Godiva will need to be fed in an upright position and will need multiple small meals a day, among other supervision that must be done.

The shelter is now looking for a forever home for Godiva, who a doctor assigned to her case called "a loving, wonderful puppy who will need a thoughtful, warm family and great home." The shelter says they'll help that family with whatever they need, and that she comes with a special feeding chair, all thanks to the thoughtfulness of a young girl.

Phoebe Schellinger, 4 of Southampton, heard about Godiva's story. Instead of birthday presents, she instead asked friends to help her get the feeding chair for Godiva. Her efforts were a success, and Phoebe even came into the shelter and got to meet Godiva.

"How she got the chair is an amazing story of kindness by a very special 4-year-old girl," says shelter Director of Animal Relations Kate McEntee.

The shelter says all of Godiva's siblings have been adopted, and only Godiva and her mom remain.

Interested in helping? The shelter says you can visit their website or call 631-728-7387 for more information. Those who may not be able to adopt but want to help can also visit this link to sponsor her.