A six-legged dog found dumped in a supermarket car park in Pembrokshire has been able to undergo surgery thanks to a host of generous donations. The 11-week-old animal now has four legs again and is doing well.
Ariel, an 11-week-old six-legged spaniel, was found by a passerby in a supermarket car park in Pembrokeshire, UK, in September. The female was very restless and was taken to Greenacres Rescue where she was surrounded with love and care. A veterinarian determined that the dog not only had two extra legs, but also an extra vulva and only one kidney. The dog’s pelvis also appeared not to be well developed due to the complex medical condition.
A large crowdfunding campaign was immediately set up. In recent months, 15,000 pounds (17,500 euros) was raised to operate the animal and give it a future again. That worked, reports surgeon Aaron Lutchman to the BBC, who managed to save the animal’s four legs that still functioned normally. “She’s doing really well,” he says. “She is now a very normal and happy dog. We hope she will live a fantastic life.”
The founder and manager of Greenacres Rescue is satisfied. “Ariel had already become much stronger in recent months, and now she is completely recovering. The day after the two operations she was already walking around and drinking and eating well. Now we just have to hope that no infections emerge. Fortunately, she is in the best hands.”
Ariel before the operation. — © Greenacres Rescue