Senior Yorkie Mix Surrendered by Only Family He Ever Knew - and He's Heartbroken
Eight-year-old Cooper spent his entire life with the only family he's ever known. Now this little senior mixed-breed pup is sitting abandoned in an animal shelter in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and it's no wonder he looks confused and completely defeated.
In a TikTok video shared by @humanebroward, a sweet Yorkie-Poodle mix thoroughly enjoys some attention from a local visitor. The visitor, radio host Jade Alexander from HITS 97.3, is offering comfort to the little dog who is struggling to understand why he's there.
@humanebroward Oh Cooper This golden boy is an adorable 8-year-old poodle/yorkie/??? mix whose whole world was turned upside down when the only family he had ever known surrendered him because they no longer had time for him. After spending his entire life in a home, it's easy to understand why this sweet boy is still trying to make sense of everything that has happened but he's been great since he's been at the shelter. In fact, when Cooper left his kennel to go for a walk, he was excited and eager, walking nicely on leash while also determined to search every possible door and window, clearly hoping to find the family he thought was coming back for him. It's heartbreaking to watch, but it also shows just how loyal and devoted Cooper truly is. Give this boy a little patience, kindness, and time to heal, and you'll discover an incredibly loving companion who will be by your side through everything. Cooper is good with adults, children ages 2 and up, dogs, and even cats. He has a playful personality and especially enjoys playing chase with other dogs. He also loves swimming, chewing on bones and toys, and happily accepting treats whenever they're offered. Cooper already knows the "sit" command and enjoys interacting with people. Like many little dogs, Cooper can bark quite a bit when he's excited, but it's all part of his expressive, spirited personality. Beneath it all is a truly wonderful dog who simply wants love, stability, and someone who won't give up on him again. Cooper is a true gem with so much love left to give. He deserves a family who will cherish him forever and remind him that home is supposed to last a lifetime. He loved spending time getting treats and some grooming with Jade from Hits 97.3 and is still looking for more treats! Please open your heart to Cooper. He deserves a second chance. To meet Cooper, visit our website (link in bio) and complete a pre adoption application. Adoption kennels are open daily at 11 a.m. at 2070 Griffin Road in Fort Lauderdale.
original sound - Humane Society Broward County
In the video, Cooper has a loveable scrappy-dog look, with a shaggy caramel-colored coat, and perky ears that flip forward - a classic Yorkshire Terrier trait. Cooper wags his tail excitedly as she approaches, then sits calmly in the next frame. Before long, his eyes lock onto the camera, almost as if he's begging someone to love him.
This senior pup shows no shortage of affection as Jade showers him with pampering, treats, and compliments. Jade shares that Cooper is known to bark a bit when he gets excited. "That's ok," she tells him, adding, "that's cause you're a dog."
According to the caption, the Yorkie-Poodle mix is playful with other dogs, gets along well with cats, and enjoys being around adults and children over the age of 2. The sweet senior dog loves to play, chew bones, and even swim. He also knows a few basic commands, including "sit." And of course, this guy never turns down treats.
Viewers were instantly smitten with Cooper, with many encouraging others to share the post in hopes of helping the senior pup find a loving home. "What a cutie pie!! Let's help find him a loving home!!" one user wrote.
Others focused on comforting the heartbroken dog directly, "Awwww, Cooper, I love your crazy hair. I'm sorry those people gave you up, but she is right, you are gorgeous with your crazy hair and big smile."
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How You Can Help Cooper and Other Dogs Like Him
Those hoping to help Cooper can do so by sharing his story, which can boost visibility for the senior pup among potential adopters or rescue organizations. Readers who are interested in adopting Cooper can contact the shelter directly at 954-989-3977. Additional information about Cooper, other adoptable pets, and the adoption process is available on the Humane Society of Broward County website.
Sadly, Cooper's situation is not an uncommon one for older dogs. Senior dogs are frequently overlooked in shelters, although they often make an easier companion for some families. Older dogs are usually house-trained, know some basic commands, and have a calmer demeanor than younger ones.
For now, Cooper waits patiently for someone willing to see beyond the shelter kennel and recognize the playful little dog with the scruffy hair, big personality, and sweet heart underneath it all.
Related: Precious Pit Bull Mix Surrendered After Family Moved 'Hasn't Lost Her Loving Spirit'
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This story was originally published May 16, 2026 at 11:38 AM.