As far as anyone knows, Skipper is one-of-a-kind.
Born with six legs during an Oklahoma snowstorm, folks at the Neel Veterinary Hospital in Oklahoma City couldn’t believe their eyes when Skipper, the border collie-Australia shepherd mix puppy, was brought in by her owners.
“This is a miracle named Skipper. Literally,” the clinic posted on Facebook Feb. 21. “She has survived longer than we suspect any other canine has (at just 4 days old – published research does not indicate one has been born alive) with her combination of congenital conditions.”
She was born naturally at home on Feb. 16 — but Skipper is anything but a normal puppy.
Skipper not only has six legs, but other duplicate body parts, too.
She has two pelvic regions, two lower urinary tracts, two reproductive systems and two tails. While she has signs of spina bifida, her organs appear to be in great shape and she’s peeing and pooping like an ordinary puppy, too.
Vets say she’s nursing well and growing as one would expect — at least so far.
“She has a type of congenital conjoining disorders called monocephalus dipygus and monocephalus rachipagus dibrachius tetrapus,” the clinic explained.
Despite all that, she’s “very strong.”
“It is likely that she was going to have a litter mate but they did not separate in utero,” veterinarians added.
Skipper was born with eight brothers and sisters in her litter.
Officials are continuing to research her condition, monitor her and do what they can to keep her comfy for the rest of of her life.
She’s back at home now and seems to be doing well.
“All of her legs move and respond to stimulus just like a normal puppy. Its possible she may need physical therapy and assistance with mobility as she gets older,” the clinic posted.
This is a miracle named Skipper. Literally. She has survived longer than we suspect any other canine has (at just 4 days…
Posted by Neel Veterinary Hospital on Sunday, February 21, 2021
In short, Skipper seems as happy as a dog with two tails — literally and figuratively.