A dog named Coco caused a commotion in the United States because he was treated to recover from a strong addiction to alcohol that he developed while living with his owner in the city of Devon, Pennsylvania.
According to specialists and veterinarians, it is the first time that such a treatment has been carried out to detoxify a pet. Coco, a two-year-old Labrador/stray cross, was taken to Woodside Animal Welfare Trust in Plympton after the death of her owner. Along with Coco also went another dog that had been attacked. Despite the staff’s care, Coco’s friend sadly died. However, Coco began the long road to recovery when he received treatment for alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Staff at the rescue centre kept Coco sedated for four weeks to prevent further seizures. It is not known how the dogs became addicted to alcohol. It is also not known how regularly he ingested alcohol. In a post on social media, staff at Woodside Animal Rescue Trust said: «Canine alcohol abstinence, a first for us». They added: «We would like to introduce you to the newest member of the Dunroamin Special Care Unit, a lovely boy named Coco. He has been with us for over a month and has needed intensive care since he arrived. His tragic story demonstrates how vital our special care unit is.» They also noted that «after arriving with his canine companion following the death of his owner, he and his companion quickly became unwell. Coco’s friend repeatedly snapped and shortly thereafter Coco began to do so as well. «Fortunately, there was a veterinarian on site at the time who was able to administer emergency care, but unfortunately Coco’s friend passed away despite our efforts,» the vets concluded.