Written and Photographed by Derek Shanks
Courage and devotion is hard to come by, to be faithful and remain at one’s side in good and bad times takes a conviction and special bond that is hard to appreciate with this age fraught with materialism and needful things. To decide who is more courageous in this scene is hard to debate given that the story is heartfelt, amazing and almost left me lost for words to describe.
Chris, aged 27 is from Saskatchewan and has been in Toronto for 6 years and up until November was gainfully employed as a furniture mover. Being laid off from his job cost him his home, left all that he had behind, except for Cujo who has remained at his side since November out on the open street on Front St. near Bay St. One shelter in the city allows folks on the streets to bring their pet. From where Chris is at the moment, that place might as well be on the moon. He won’t part with Cujo as their bond keeps them together. It’s an amazing thing to think about, when Chris sleeps, Cujo is free to run at will or could fight hard against Chris, yet Cujo remains by his side. Chris would rather sleep in the cold at night than lose his friend, he does this by choice. He is awaiting on what could be a turning point in March when he can take part in a program that will help transition him off the street. One problem, his faithful friend needs be with him, when Chris finds an apartment for about $400 or $500 a month , his hopeful budget. The place has to accept his buddy Cujo. One would say that he has a choice in finding a good home for his companion and concentrate fixing his life first, however most of Chris’ family has passed on, his dog is his family. As you can see from the dog food, he spends his time panning to feed both of them. On his last fight, Chris puts himself into harms way, cold, unsheltered and discomfort in order keep that bond he shares with Cujo intact.
The first shot I took a week before, Chris wasn’t there, however I was determined to find out the story of the owner of this pile. The second shot now tells an amazing story, we will be going back to visit Chris, he was gracious, appreciative and great to talk to. We want to find out how he is making out and if his transition hopes in March come to light. Till then, if you see Chris, bring some treats for the pup and take your gloves off, Cujo is not a fan of gloves.
