‘Alcoholic’ Labrador Becomes First UK Dog To Be Treated For Addiction

An “alcoholic” Labrador in the UK has become the first dog to be treated for alcohol addiction after his owner kept leaving unfinished drinks out. 

Coco, a two-year-old Labrador cross, was brought into Woodside Animal Rescue Trust in Plympton, Devon, with another dog following the death of their owner.

In a Facebook post seeking a new home for “lovely boy” Coco, the Trust explained the dog had been with it for over a month having “required intensive care since arriving”.

“His story is a tragic one and evidences how vital our special care unit is,” the Trust wrote, acknowledging that the case was a “first” for them. Upon arrival, the two dogs “became quickly unwell,” according to a updated published on social media, with Coco’s companion dying despite the rescue’s best efforts. 

After requiring round-the-clock care, the rescue said it “became clear” the dog was suffering from symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.

“He spent four weeks sedated to help with his withdrawal symptoms and to reduce the risk of further fits,” the rescue explained. Woodside also noted that while Coco has recovered physically, the canine is not ready for adoption as he continues to recover mentally.

“No one knows the specifics on how these dogs got into the situation with alcohol, but we do know that without our care, Coco would likely have not survived this heartbreaking ordeal,” the organisation added.