Meet Cooper, an American foxhound with a rare condition called short spine syndrome. Despite having a body half as long as a typical dog, Cooper’s cheerful personality has captured the hearts of many online. His loving owners, Elly and Andy Keegan, say he’s the happiest dog they know.
Cooper’s early life was tough. He was abandoned as a puppy because his birth defect made him unprofitable for breeders. In 2017, animal control found him near a suspected puppy farm in Halifax, Virginia. Cooper, then two months old, had ear mites, worms, and a hernia. A shelter called The Bond Between took him in and treated him. Eventually, Elly and Andy adopted him, adding him to their three-dog family.
Despite his mobility issues and difficulty walking on hard surfaces, Cooper’s joyfulness stands out. Elly explains, “His condition comes from inbreeding, and it’s sad to think he was thrown away because of it.” She also noted that many dogs with this condition are euthanized, but Cooper shows they can live happy lives.
Cooper’s condition means his spine is twisted and fused in places, making it look like he has no neck. To look around, he has to turn his whole body. His unusual anatomy caused him problems, like difficulty going to the bathroom, but surgery has helped, and he now needs less assistance.
The Keegans have faced challenges, including Cooper fracturing his neck shortly after adoption and battling a bone infection. Thankfully, with treatment, his health has improved, and he’s now more independent.
Cooper, who loves soft surfaces like grass or carpet, can’t walk on hard ground or go on long walks. But he’s still full of joy and attracts attention wherever he goes, becoming a Facebook favorite.
The Bond Between, a rescue organization that focuses on helping animals with special needs, has been key in Cooper’s journey. Since 2009, they’ve found homes for over 29,000 dogs and cats. Teri Woolard, the coordinator, encourages adopting special needs pets, saying, “Dogs like Cooper have a lot of love to give and make great companions. We’re proud to be part of his story.”
Cooper’s story shows how important it is to care for and cherish our furry friends, no matter their challenges.
Cooper – Short On Spine dog
