Inspiring Tale: Dog Born Without Neck Defies Odds To Lead A Fulfilling Life

Cooper is an absolutely one-of-a-kind canine, unlike any other in existence.

This extraordinary American foxhound entered the world on a puppy farm, facing incredible odds due to a peculiar condition that left him without a proper neck. While still in the womb, his vertebrae became compressed and fused together.

Despite these challenges, Cooper, now two years old, refuses to let his condition hinder him, even if it means he must rotate his entire body to look behind him.

In 2017, animal control officers in Halifax, Virginia stumbled upon Cooper near a puppy mill and rescued him. Only two months old at the time, he was promptly placed in the care of Secondhand Hounds, an organization based in Minnetonka.

The officers who rescued Cooper suspect that his rare condition may have led to his abandonment. Due to the fused vertebrae, he struggles with prolonged periods of walking, and his hindquarters being positioned higher on his back makes defecation challenging. Secondhand Hounds recognized the uphill battle they would face in rehabilitating Cooper.

Cooper underwent treatment for ear mites, worms, and a hernia. Additionally, he required surgical intervention to rectify his bowel movements. Unfortunately, his initial placement in a new home did not prove to be a suitable match. Despite his best efforts, Cooper couldn’t resist the temptation of chasing the family’s cats.

Fortunately, his next opportunity proved to be a perfect fit.

Elly and Andy Keegan, parents to Skylar (13), Tuva (4), and Waylon (3), harmoniously welcomed Cooper into their dog-loving family.

“I consider myself fortunate to have the unwavering support of Secondhand Hounds and an ideal environment for a dog with special needs,” expressed Elly. “That’s not to say we haven’t faced challenges. A few months after joining our family, he experienced a fall resulting in five fractures to his neck.”

Through a consistent regimen of antibiotics, Cooper’s spine has remained free from infection. He now possesses the ability to independently attend to his bathroom needs and relishes the freedom he has attained. Unbeknownst to him, Cooper has also gained a modest celebrity status on social media platforms.

Without a doubt, Cooper’s extraordinary journey continues to captivate the hearts of many.

It proves to be quite difficult due to his limited capacity for long walks and restricted endurance on solid surfaces,” Elly expressed. “He requires the presence of accommodating environments like grassy terrains or carpeted areas.

“Nevertheless, his resilience remains unmatched, and his happiness knows no bounds,” she added.

Cooper’s predicament potentially stems from inbreeding, as he was abandoned when deemed unsuitable for sale. Nevertheless, he has become a representation of perfection for his newfound family and has captivated the hearts of countless others who have become acquainted with his story.

“Cooper serves as a perfect illustration that canines with impairments possess immeasurable affection to provide and excel as comrades,” stressed Teri Woolard, the Surrender Coordinator at Secondhand Hounds. “We feel immense delight for having contributed to his remarkable voyage.”

Analogous to Cooper, this exceptional Great Dane surpassed all predictions.

Cooper, in every aspect, is an extraordinary pooch who wholeheartedly protects his eternal family. Observe the genuine magnitude of his splendor in the mesmerizing video beneath, exhibiting his unwavering affection despite his bodily constraints.