The American foxhound was born “with no neck” on a puppy farm and was never expected to survive. While he was in the womb, several of his vertebrae were squeezed and fused together.
Cooper’s unique ailment isn’t holding him back now that he’s two years old, even if it means he has to spin his entire body to look behind him.
Cooper was rescued in 2017 after being discovered near a puppy mill by animal control authorities in Halifax, Virginia. He was only two months old when he was taken to Secondhand Hounds in Minnetonka.
Cooper was found by authorities who believe he was abandoned because of his uncommon illness. He has trouble walking for long periods of time, and defecating is tough for him because his bottom end is placed a long way up his back. SecondhandHounds knew they had their work cut out for them when they took up Cooper.
Cooper had ear mites, worms, and a hernia that needed to be addressed. He also required surgery in order to properly poop. To make matters worse, Cooper’s initial placement did not work out. Despite how difficult it was for the dog, he couldn’t stop himself from pursuing the family’s cats.
His next choice, thankfully, worked out.
Elly and Andy Keegan, who have three dogs named Skylar, 13, Tuva, 4, and Waylon, 3, were a fantastic match for Cooper.
“I am fortunate to have Secondhand Hounds’ assistance and the ideal environment for a special needs dog,” Elly remarked. “That’s not to imply there aren’t incidents. He fell a few months after arriving and shattered his neck in five places.”
Cooper’s spine has been kept free of infection by taking antibiotics on a daily basis. He can go to the bathroom by himself and is savoring every moment of his independence. Even if he doesn’t realize it, he’s a minor celebrity on social media.
Elly explained, “It’s difficult because he can’t go for lengthy walks and can’t spend a lot of time on hard surfaces.” “He must be on a soft surface, such as grass or carpet.”
‘However, he remains the happiest dog.”
Cooper’s illness could have been caused by inbreeding, and he was abandoned after being found unfit for sale. To his new family, and to many others who have heard his story, he is nothing short of flawless.
Cooper is an example of how dogs with disabilities can provide a lot of love and make wonderful pets, according to Teri Woolard, owner surrender coordinator at Secondhand Hounds. “We’re ecstatic to have been a part of his adventure.”
This Great Dane, like Cooper, defied the odds.