A Little Egg Harbor rescue dog born into an abusive environment has overcome all odds, and is now not only a healthy, friendly pet, but also the face of an online community for Norwegian elkhound owners worldwide.

Cooper came into John Kingsley’s life on Easter Sunday in 2023, when he and his wife, Meredeth, decided to visit the Associated Humane Societies’ animal sanctuary and pet adoption center in Lacey Township, Popcorn Park Animal Refuge, on a whim.