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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
World
Danya Bazaraa

'Miracle' puppy born with 6 legs and 2 tails is 'first to survive its conditions'

An adorable puppy born with six legs and two tails is thought to be the first to survive with her combination of congenital conditions.

As well as six legs and two tails, the border collie and Australian shepherd mix has two pelvic regions and two reproductive systems and has been described as a "miracle".

Skipper was born along with eight brothers and sisters on February 16 in Oklahoma during a big snowstorm, Dr. Tina Neel, owner of the Neel Veterinary Hospital, told CNN.

Her owners took her to the vets to be examined following the storm.

Neel Veterinary Hospital wrote on their Facebook page: "This is a miracle named Skipper. Literally.

"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.

Skipper is feeding well (gofundme)

"You might notice she looks a little different - 6 legs!

"She has a type of congenital conjoining disorders called monocephalus dipygus and monocephalus rachipagus dibrachius tetrapus which simply means she has 1 head and chest cavity but 2 pelvic regions, 2 lower urinary tracts, 2 reproductive systems, 2 tails and 6 legs among other things.

"It is likely that she was going to have a litter mate but they did not separate in utero."

The vets said she had signs of spina bifida along her spine but her organs appear to be in great shape.

They described the pup as "very strong," saying she is growing well so far.

She was born with six legs (Neel Veterinary Hospital/Facebook)

"All of her legs move and respond to stimulus just like a normal puppy," the vets said.

"Its possible she may need physical therapy and assistance with mobility as she gets older."

They said they would continue to monitor her conditions but for now she is doing well and at home.

A gofundme page set up for Skipper says: "Skippers Miracle is a special puppy.

"She was born with 6 legs and some double organs.

"She has been rejected by her mother and is being bottle fed.

"She will require many vet visits and possibly future surgery to fix some issues if they arise."

To donate, click here.

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