Local animal rescue groups caring for hospitalized homeless veteran’s pets

A Lexington veteran has been able to remain in the hospital to receive treatment without worrying about what would happen to his three dogs thanks to Justice for Abused Animals in Corbin and Homeward Bound Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation in London.

Janet Evans of Homeward Bound, said she received a call from a doctor at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Lexington earlier this month that a homeless veteran, known as, “Harold,” was in the hospital but was preparing to check out because he didn’t have the money to keep the dogs boarded.

“We paid for one more night of boarding until we were able to bring them back to London,” Evans said.

Evans contacted Jamie Medlin with Justice for Abused Animals and between the two groups, the dogs are being cared for while Harold continues his treatment for depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Medlin said the three dogs were taken to the hospital on December 5 to visit with Harold. 

“They knew exactly who he was,” Medlin said of Harold and the dogs, noting Harold had expressed fear that the dogs may have forgotten him.

“He (Harold) stated that if it were not for his three dogs, he would not be here today,” she said.

The dogs have returned to the hospital two other times to visit Harold. 

Medlin said the hospital permits visits by animals as long as the animal’s shots are up to date.

Each time Harold visits with the dogs, Medlin said you can see a big difference in Harold and the dogs.

Medlin said plans are progressing to bring the dogs to Lexington to visit Harold on Christmas.

“It is therapy for him,” Medlin said of the visits.

Harold will be at the hospital until at least January 8.

Medlin said Justice for Abused Animals and Homeward Bound are working to raise funds to help Harold find a permanent home, hopefully in a place where rent is based on income.

“He wants a home where he can have his dogs,” Medlin said of Harold.

Any funds raised will go to Harold to help him get started.

Donations may be sent to:

Justice for Abused Animals

P.O. Box 898 

Corbin KY. 40702

Evans said anyone who would like to donate to help cover the cost of the dogs’ care may contact Cumberland Valley Animal Hospital at, (606) 864-9120.