Cooper Farris has an exceptional story to tell. He was released to the Oregon Humane Society by his owners because they were unable to handle his expenses. Cooper was covered in mats and tangles; he is blind, very hard of hearing . . . and he is diabetic. He stayed at the Humane Society for several months, and had a 10 yr old girl also with diabetes as his walking partner. She won 1st place in a coloring contest, and donated the $55.00 prize to Cooper's adoption fee to try and help him be adopted. Cooper was finally released to Miniature Schnauzer Rescue.

Cooper's foster father took him under his wing, and slowly worked out all of the tangles and mats so he wouldn't have to be shaved down. He had a vet visit to assess his health, and set up a diet and insulin regimen. Cooper had his teeth cleaned, ears cleaned, lumps on his leg removed, and shots. And finally, Cooper was groomed . . . and he became a magnificent little boy.

He adjusted beautifully to his foster home. He got along well with the other dogs, and slowly learned to leave the cat alone (kitty nose-slaps seemed to do the trick). Cooper quickly figured out the trail from the door, across the patio, down the rock path, and finally, to the grass. He walked softly, testing where he was, and didn't seem disturbed by the occasional "bump." Cooper is a very trusting little boy . . . quite amazing under the circumstances.

Cooper's story has a most remarkable ending. Charlaina and John drove down from Kelowna, B.C. to meet Cooper . . . and absolutely loved him. Best part of the story is . . . Charlaina is a registered nurse. Cooper will be so very well taken care of! And he will join two older "sisters" - 11 and 12 year old Greyhound girlies. There just can't be a better ending for a little boy who made so many friends along his way. And all of his friends deeply believed in his will to survive!

June 2009