‘Miracle’ six-legged pup delivered at vet hospital
Skipper doing well but may need physical therapy
A veterinary hospital has described a six-legged puppy it delivered as a “miracle”.
The Neel hospital in Oklahoma said the dog, named skipper, is the result of a fertilized egg trying to split but not fully separating.
It is highly unusual for pups like Skipper to be born alive, never mind survive so long, but a post on the hospital’s Facebook page said all her legs respond to stimulus just like those of a normal puppy.
It added: ““She has one head and chest cavity but two pelvic regions, two lower urinary tracts, two reproductive systems, two tails and six legs among other things.
“It is likely that she was going to have a litter mate but they did not separate in utero.
“It’s possible she may need physical therapy and assistance with mobility as she gets older. We will continue to research her conditions, monitor her development during rechecks and help keep Skipper pain-free and comfortable for the rest of life. She is doing well at home now.”
Vets said the six-legged canine is looking healthy, her organs are performing well and that she she is nursing well too – all signs that she’ll have a chance at a longer-than-expected life.
Skipper’s owners also shared a video on Facebook of Skipper enjoying some tickles and petting .
Unfortunately, the pup was rejected by her mother and requires bottle feeding
