Meet Cooper, the cheerful American foxhound with a rare condition known as short spine syndrome. This distinctive condition results in a body that is only half as long as that of a typical dog. Yet, despite the obstacles he faces, Cooper’s joyful spirit shines through, winning the hearts of many online. He truly embodies happiness, as highlighted by his caring owners, Elly and Andy Keegan.
Cooper was left behind as a puppy when breeders realized he wouldn’t be profitable for them. In the summer of 2017, animal control officials discovered a small puppy near an alleged puppy mill in Halifax, Virginia. It was thought that the two-month-old Cooper was abandoned due to his birth defect. The Bond Between shelter took him in, providing care for ear mites, worms, and a hernia. Ultimately, Cooper found his forever home with Elly and Andy, who already had three dogs at that time.
Despite challenges with movement and an inability to walk on hard surfaces, Keegan describes Cooper as the happiest dog. “His condition is a result of inbreeding, and it’s heartbreaking to think he was neglected when the breeders saw he wasn’t a money-maker.” Elly also noted that many dogs with similar conditions are euthanized, which saddens her deeply. “These dogs have so much life to live, and Cooper is a perfect example. He leads a happy, normal life now and is an important part of our family,” she shared.
She further elaborated on Cooper’s rare condition, explaining, “His spine has screwing and twisting, fused in two places: at his neck and back end. It looks like he has no neck, and to see behind him, he has to move his entire body.”
Additionally, she mentioned, “His rear end was matted and stuck to his back. He had trouble using the bathroom, which caused him significant discomfort.”
Although Cooper is surrounded by love, he has encountered health difficulties.
While The Bond Between is dedicated to helping special needs animals, Keegan and Cooper still face various hurdles. The couple admitted to experiencing setbacks. Just a few months after they adopted him, Cooper fell and fractured his neck in five locations. He was later diagnosed with a serious bone infection known as osteomyelitis, which was particularly risky given the state of his spine. Thankfully, they managed to control it with antibiotics.
Fortunately, Cooper’s situation has improved. He underwent surgery that has made it easier for him to relieve himself, significantly lowering his need for assistance. Now, he requires minimal help and is more independent.
Cooper is also being considered for a study on short-spined dogs at Purdue University in Indiana.
Copper is unable to take long walks or spend much time on hard surfaces; he prefers moving on softer ground like grass or carpets. Keegan shared, “Despite everything, he’s still the happiest dog. He attracts attention wherever he goes and truly enjoys it. He has many fans on Facebook.”
Cooper’s journey highlights the importance of caring for our furry friends.
The Bond Between focuses on rescuing at-risk dogs and cats, committing to their well-being through adoption, rehabilitation, and hospice care, according to their website. Since their establishment in 2009, they have rescued over 29,000 animals, helping them find loving homes.
Teri Woolard, a coordinator at The Bond Between, advocates for the adoption of special needs pets. She expressed, “Cooper shows that dogs with disabilities can be incredibly loving companions and make wonderful pets. We are thrilled to have been a part of his journey.”
