Family Adopts and Cherishes Dog Born with Unique Spine Condition, Demonstrating Unconditional Love

Cooper is the “happiest dog," his owner says.

Damjan

• Published in Animal Stories
• July 23, 2023

All dogs, despite their unique appearances, are beautiful in their own way and fully deserve to be cherished in loving, caring homes.

Take the remarkable story of an extraordinarily special canine named Cooper, who faced considerable challenges due to his unique physical traits, but against all odds, found his perfect forever home. Cooper, an American foxhound, was born with an uncommon condition that left him with no discernible neck and only half of a typical spine.

Cooper has been diagnosed with "short spine syndrome," a rare genetic disorder that forces the vertebrae in his spine to fuse together, compressing it significantly. This condition makes him a rare specimen, as, according to a report by the Daily Mail, he is one of only 30 dogs worldwide to suffer from this syndrome.

Cooper's owner, Elly Keegan, described the condition to the Daily Mail, stating, "His spine is fused in two places - at his neck and his rear." As a result of this, Cooper appears neckless, and he must swivel his entire body to look behind him.

Born with such a distinguishing physical deformity, Cooper's early life was far from easy. It is speculated that he was born on a puppy farm near Halifax, Virginia. The inbreeding practices common in such facilities likely contributed to his condition.

In 2017, rescuers found Cooper and transported him to Secondhand Hounds, a rescue organization based in Minnetonka, Minnesota. They initially managed to place him in a home, but unfortunately, that placement fell through due to his predilection for chasing the family's cats. Despite his condition and past challenges, Cooper remains a testament to the resilience of animals and the power of love and acceptance in finding a suitable, caring home.

Cooper has been diagnosed with "short spine syndrome," a rare genetic disorder that forces the vertebrae in his spine to fuse together, compressing it significantly.

Elly Keegan and her family swiftly emerged as the perfect home for Cooper. Where many would overlook a dog with such an unconventional appearance or, worse yet, consider euthanasia due to his condition,

Elly exhibited an exceptional fondness for dogs with disabilities. She demonstrated an unwavering determination to offer Cooper the requisite care and attention he needed. Elly, in partnership with Secondhand Hounds, understood that Cooper would need ongoing medical care.

Initially, the unique canine faced several health complications. For instance, a fall led to a complex neck fracture that broke into five parts and was further complicated by a bone infection.

Despite these challenges, Elly and her family remained committed to Cooper's care.

He is one of only 30 dogs worldwide to suffer from this syndrome.

In 2017, rescuers found Cooper and transported him to Secondhand Hounds, a rescue organization based in Minnetonka, Minnesota

Elly Keegan and her family swiftly emerged as the perfect home for Cooper.

Elly, in partnership with Secondhand Hounds, understood that Cooper would need ongoing medical care. Initially, the unique canine faced several health complications

Despite his challenging circumstances, Cooper's condition has shown marked improvement in various aspects. Elly shares that due to a birth defect, Cooper essentially had his "tail on his back." However, surgical intervention has significantly enhanced his capability to manage his bathroom needs independently.

Elly fondly describes Cooper as the "joyful dog," and she affirms that his presence always brings delight to those around him. Wherever Cooper goes, he invariably draws attention, a spotlight that he genuinely revels in. A

s reported by Elly to the Daily Mail, Cooper enjoys a broad fanbase on Facebook. His endearing, affable nature makes him an amiable companion, adding to his popularity.

Damjan