LONDON – A remarkable story of resilience and determination comes from Pembroke, Wales, where a spaniel named Ariel has defied the odds. Born with six legs and abandoned in a supermarket parking lot, Ariel has undergone a life-changing surgery to remove her extra limbs.
Named after “The Little Mermaid” character due to the resemblance of one of her extra limbs to a flipper, Ariel is now running through the grass outside a veterinary hospital, adjusting to life on four legs.
Vicki Black, director of the Langford Vets Small Animal Referral Hospital, where Ariel underwent the surgery, expressed her joy at Ariel’s progress. “She is doing brilliantly,” Black said, highlighting the dog’s remarkable recovery.
After being found in September, Ariel was taken in by Greenacres Rescue, who raised funds for her surgery. The University of Bristol’s hospital, where the surgery took place, had never encountered a six-legged dog before, making Ariel’s case a unique and challenging one.
“Ariel was a complicated little dog,” Black said. “We are a center committed to career-long learning and are proud to innovate and treat pets like Ariel.”
Before the surgery, the extra legs were of no use and appeared to be a hindrance to Ariel’s mobility. However, as she was discharged from the hospital, she displayed the determination and spirit of any other dog, exploring the lawn with her nose to the ground and pulling on her leash.
Ariel’s story is a testament to the resilience of animals and the dedication of veterinary professionals in providing innovative and life-changing care.
I disagree. It’s incredible to see how resilient and adaptive animals can be even after surgeries like these.