An ‘alcoholic’ Labrador became the first dog being treated for alcohol addiction after vets scrambled to save him and another dog hooked on booze that was left out by their dead owner.
The dog had to be given intensive care for ‘alcoholism’ after developing a dependency because his owner kept leaving drink out.
Coco, a two-year-old labrador cross, was taken to the Woodside Animal Rescue Trust in Plympton, Devon, after his owner died.
Coco arrived at the shelter with another dog after their owner passed away, but both quickly became unwell.
They would frequently suffer from fits and required emergency care from a vet.
Eventually, animal rescue workers realised the dogs were struggling with alcohol withdrawals.
The owner used to have a drink and then fall asleep, leaving the alcohol out for the dogs to lap up by mistake.
‘But the dogs were very well cared for and loved – Coco was well trained and he loves cuddles,’ the charity’s Kirsten Stone said.
The Trust explained that the situation was a ‘first for them’ on social media.
They wrote: ‘Sadly Coco’s friend passed away despite our best efforts.‘
‘Coco continued to be seriously unwell and required round-the-clock care. It became clear that he was suffering from symptoms that all pointed to alcohol withdrawal.
’Coco had to stay under sedation for four weeks to avoid suffering any more fits.
The Trust added: ‘We are so thankful that we are now out of danger and Coco is off all medication and is now starting to behave like a normal dog.
‘He is not yet ready for adoption and whilst physically he seems to have recovered, mentally he is still very anxious at times.’
Kirsten said Coco’s new owner would have to be someone who is often at home.
