Even dogs who have a slightly peculiar appearance are beautiful in their own special way and deserve wonderful, loving homes.
Just like a one-of-a-kind dog who faced challenges due to his unique traits but eventually discovered the ideal home. He was born with only a partial spine and no neck.
American foxhound Cooper suffers from a genetic condition known as “short spine syndrome,” which causes his vertebrae to converge and compress. According to the Daily Mail, he is one of only 30 dogs worldwide with this condition.
His owner, Elly Keegan, explained to the Daily Mail that “[his spine] is fused in two places—his neck and his rear.” Because he lacks a neck, he has to turn his entire body to look behind him.
The oddly shaped dog had a difficult start in life. Given his birth defect, he likely came from a puppy farm near Halifax, Virginia. His disability was probably caused by inbreeding at puppy mills.
In 2017, rescuers found him and brought him to Secondhand Hounds, a shelter in Minnetonka, Minnesota. While he was initially housed there, his tendency to chase the shelter’s cats made that arrangement unsuitable.
However, Elly Keegan and her family quickly won Cooper’s heart. Elly, who has a special compassion for dogs with disabilities, was determined to provide Cooper with the care and attention he deserved, unlike many who might overlook or even euthanize a dog with such a unique condition.
With support from Secondhand Hounds, Elly acknowledged that Cooper required medical care. The dog faced several health challenges, including a fall that caused a five-part neck fracture and a bone infection.
Despite these issues, Cooper’s condition has improved in other aspects. Elly notes that due to a congenital defect, he essentially had his “butt on his back,” but surgery has enhanced his ability to use the bathroom independently.
Elly describes Cooper as the “happiest dog” and mentions that everyone delights in seeing him.
Wherever he goes, Cooper attracts attention, and he actually enjoys it. Elly told the Daily Mail that he has built a large following on Facebook due to his friendly nature.
Dogs with special needs or unique appearances deserve love and care just like any other. Cooper has found an ideal home where he is cherished and accepted for who he is, and we are thrilled about it.
