Wounded West Covina police K-9 released from hospital

WEST COVINA, Calif. (KABC) -- A West Covina police dog that was shot while on the job has returned home from the hospital.

Reiko was released to his handler, Officer Bryan Rodriguez, around 7 p.m. Tuesday. The 2-year-old Belgian Shepherd was able to walk outside unassisted.

The K-9 was shot in the shoulder by a murder suspect Sunday evening on the 1500 block East Elgenia Street. He was rushed to TLC Pet Medical Center in South Pasadena, where surgeons were able to remove the bullet. He was then transported to Animal Specialty Group in Los Angeles to recover.

Officers say Reiko is walking slowly and is still in pain, but he's doing well enough to go home. He is expected to make a full recovery.

"The entire West Covina Police Department gives thanks to everyone for their concerns and constant support over the welfare of our Reiko. You have truly been the reason we have managed to get through this very trying ordeal," the department wrote on its Facebook page.

Reiko became the West Covina Police Department's first community-purchased police dog in December 2013. The department was able to purchase and train Reiko from donations made by businesses and citizens.