For nearly 90 years, The Dog’s Refuge Home in Western Australia has been a sanctuary for lost and abandoned dogs, rescuing and rehoming approximately 1,500 dogs annually. This organization works tirelessly to provide a safe haven for these animals, offering them care and love until they find their forever homes. However, the story of one particular resident, Cooee, has captivated the hearts of many. Surrendered by his family due to their struggles in caring for him, Cooee’s journey took an unexpected turn when staff discovered that this “dog” was, in fact, not a dog at all.
Shelter Dog Surrendered Multiple Times—DNA Test Uncovers a Stunning Secret
The Surprising Discovery of Cooee’s True Identity
When Cooee first arrived at the shelter, the staff assumed he was a Kelpie cross, a common breed in Australia. However, after conducting a DNA test, they were shocked to discover that Cooee is 100% dingo. Jasmin Suter, a staff member at The Dog’s Refuge Home, expressed her surprise: “We’ve definitely had dogs with dingo in them before, but we were shocked to find out Cooee is in fact 100% dingo.” Dingos are wild canines native to Australia and Southeast Asia, known for their adaptability and intelligence. They are known to interbreed with domesticated dogs, creating hybrids that often share some dingo traits. However, Cooee’s case was unique; he was purely dingo, and his behavior reflected this heritage.
During his time at the rescue center, Cooee exhibited typical dingo behaviors, which proved challenging for potential adopters. “He has been adopted and returned for typical dingo behavior,” Suter noted. This realization poses a unique challenge for the shelter, as dingoes are not as easily domesticated as traditional dog breeds.
The Viral Sensation of Cooee’s Story
Cooee’s story quickly gained traction online after The Dog’s Refuge Home shared a clip of him on their TikTok account, @dogsrefugehome. The video, posted on September 22, showcased Cooee relaxing with his eyes closed, enjoying some affection from the staff. Accompanying the footage were the words, “Us before we did a DNA test on the ‘dog’ surrendered to us that turned out to be 100% Dingo.” The clip resonated with viewers, amassing close to a million views and over 160,000 likes. TikTok users flocked to the comments, sharing their own anecdotes and insights about dingoes and their behaviors.
One user suggested that Cooee’s story exemplifies the process of domestication, drawing parallels between his life and the ancient relationship between humans and wild canines. Others shared personal experiences with dingoes, recounting how they had a pet dingo in their childhood or had encountered one in the wild. These stories fostered a sense of community and shared understanding around Cooee’s unique situation, sparking interest and compassion for the dingo’s plight.
Finding a Forever Home for Cooee
Despite the challenges that come with Cooee’s dingo lineage, the team at The Dog’s Refuge Home remains hopeful that he will find a loving family who understands his needs. Suter described Cooee as a “gorgeous boy” who, despite his wild nature, has formed a bond with the staff: “Winning his trust makes you feel extra special, and our team are completely in love with him.”
The ideal home for Cooee would be a quiet environment where he could thrive. Suter emphasized the importance of having a secure yard and spaces where Cooee can feel safe, such as dog crates or elevated areas to observe his surroundings. A family with experience or a willingness to learn about dingo behavior would be best suited for Cooee, ensuring that his needs are met and that he receives the care and attention he deserves.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Cooee
Cooee’s story is a remarkable reminder of the unique and often unexpected journeys that animals can take. As he continues to navigate life at The Dog’s Refuge Home, the hope remains that he will soon find a forever family who appreciates his true nature. In an era where animal rescue and adoption are more important than ever, Cooee’s tale serves as a poignant example of the love and dedication that goes into caring for animals in need. With patience and understanding, it is possible to provide a fulfilling life for Cooee and to celebrate the unique qualities that make him a truly special dingo.
