By Brandon HENSLEY

A police officer, a homeless veteran and his dog walk into a pet hospital. There’s no punchline here, just a heartwarming story of the veteran and his canine companion receiving help from the community.

On Tuesday, Chris took his dog Corey to Crescenta-Cañada Pet Hospital for a much-needed check-up. It was all part of an ongoing process to help get Chris back on his feet.

“[Corey] is getting taken care of, making sure his shots are up-to-date. It’s part of the help I’ve been getting,” Chris said.

Chris, who served with the 82nd Airborne in the U.S. Army, was found homeless in mid-June. Glendale Police officer James Colvin, who is the head of the unit’s Mental Evaluation Team, was the first contact for Chris. Together, they are working with Wellness Works and are in the process of finding a home for Chris and Corey. Wellness Works is taking care of the VA work, Colvin said.

“They’re doing amazing things, not just for [Chris] but for other veterans,” Colvin said. “They took Corey, too. They’ve accepted him into his little family. He’s able to hang out in their little garden. Everybody loves him.”
Corey, a 2-year-old black Labrador and pit bull mix, received passing marks from Dr. JD Speas, who donated his services, at the pet hospital. Since GPD has been with Chris, he’s received showers, clothes and meals. Corey was able to have a spa day at Sassy Pets Spa and Daycare in Eagle Rock.
Chris grew up in the Burbank-Glendale area before enlisting. Colvin said he appreciated the opportunity to get to know Chris.
“Getting to see him and meet him really helped us both,” he said. “I’m really glad it happened.”

  Brandon Hensley