There are very few dogs quite like Cooper in the world. This American foxhound puppy was born on a farm with a unique feature – he had no neck. His condition was unexpected, and he wasn’t expected to survive. Some of his vertebrae were fused together and compressed while he was still in the womb.
Despite being two years old now, Cooper’s unique situation isn’t stopping him from living his best life – even if it means he has to turn his whole body around to look behind himself. Rescued in 2017 from a pet mill in Halifax, Virginia, when he was just two months old, Cooper was brought to Secondhand Hounds in Minnetonka to start his journey to a brighter future.
The officers who came to Cooper’s rescue speculated that he may have been abandoned due to his unique condition. Cooper faced challenges in walking for long periods of time, as his hind end was positioned higher up on his back, making it difficult for him to defecate. When SecondhandHounds took Cooper in, they knew they had their work cut out for them.
Cooper received treatment for ear mites, worms, and a hernia. He also required surgery to address his bowel issues. To add to his troubles, the first home he was placed in didn’t pan out. Despite his best efforts, Cooper couldn’t resist chasing the family’s cats.
Thankfully, Cooper found success in his next home.
Elly and Andy Keegan, parents to three dogs – Skylar, Tuva, and Waylon, turned out to be a perfect match for Cooper, a special needs dog. Elly expressed gratitude for the support of Secondhand Hounds and the right environment for Cooper. While they have had some challenges, such as Cooper fracturing his neck, they have managed to keep his spine infection-free with antibiotics. Cooper is able to go to the bathroom on his own and is enjoying his newfound freedom. Despite not realizing it, he has become a social media sensation.
“He struggles a bit because he can’t go on long walks or be on hard surfaces for too long,” Elly shared. “He needs to be on soft ground like grass or carpet, but he’s still the happiest pup around.”
Cooper’s challenges may have stemmed from inbreeding, leading to him being deemed unsuitable for sale and ultimately abandoned. Despite his rough start, he has nothing but love to give to his new family and everyone who has heard his story.
“Cooper exemplifies that dogs with disabilities have endless love to give and are wonderful pets,” Teri Woolard, owner surrender coordinator at Secondhand Hounds, expressed. “We are thrilled to have played a part in his incredible journey.”
Just like Cooper, this Great Dane defied the odds and overcame hardship.
Meet Cooper, an extraordinary dog who is extremely loyal to his forever family. Watch the video below to witness the amazing bond he shares with his loved ones. Cooper may be small in size, but he is definitely big on love and protection!