Zelda, a DTES front line worker unlike any other

Trey Helten and Zelda
3 years old Zelda assists her human at his work at the Overdose Prevention Society - Photo courtesy of Trey Helten
Jordan Kawchuk - CFRO - VancouverBC | 10-11-2021
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If a dog is man's best friend, then Zelda takes that to a whole new level. You could say the three-year-old pit bull is the Downtown Eastside's best friend. Since she was a pup, Zelda has been coming to work with her owner Trey Helten, manager of the Overdose Prevention Society, a safe consumption site here in the heart of the city.

And for three years, Zelda has watched and copied what Trey and his team do: help people in the throes of addiction stay safe and stable. But this dog does more than just tag along, she's a crucial staff member who helps save lives by literally making sure users are okay.

Reporter Jordan Kawchuk speaks with Trey Helten about his courageous canine and the day she amazed even him.

 

Zelda taking her orders for the day

Zelda the Hero Dog - Photo courtesy Trey Helten