Amid the constant stream of bad news that fills our screens, a heart-warming tale comes from a hospital in Oklahoma, USA. A puppy born with severe abnormalities has survived its first week, and doctors are optimistic that she will live a healthy life. Skipper the puppy is a cross-breed - she is a border collie and Australian shepherd mix. She was one of a litter of nine puppies. While her brothers and sisters came out "normal," Skipper was born with six legs and two tails. These are her most visible congenital conditions. She has others, including two pelvic regions, two lower urinary tracts and two reproductive regions. Her vet said that despite Skipper's condition, her organs are working "just fine".
Vets have called Skipper's survival a "miracle". The Neel Veterinary Hospital in Oklahoma, where she was born, wrote: "She has survived longer than we suspect any other canine has....Published research does not indicate one that has been born alive...with her combination of congenital conditions." It added: "Skipper is a strong girl. She is able to scoot around just like a regular puppy." Neel added: "We think that she may have some things to overcome, but she is determined right now and thriving." The miracle puppy has her own Facebook page. It says: "She is currently at the correct weight for her age and accomplishing all of her milestones. She is following a path to a happy and healthy life."
