LONDON. Ariel, a spaniel born with six legs, has undergone a groundbreaking surgical procedure to remove her extra limbs and is now joyfully adapting to life on four paws. The unique canine, named after the character from “The Little Mermaid” due to her flipper-like additional appendage, was discovered abandoned in a supermarket parking lot in Pembroke, Wales, last September.
The remarkable transformation took place at the Langford Vets Small Animal Referral Hospital, a part of the University of Bristol, where a team of veterinarians, led by Director Vicki Black, successfully performed the intricate operation on Thursday. Ariel’s surgery was necessitated by multiple birth defects, making her case exceptionally challenging.
Vicki Black expressed her satisfaction with Ariel’s progress, stating, “She is doing brilliantly.” The Langford Vets hospital, known for its commitment to continuous learning and innovation, took on the unprecedented challenge with enthusiasm, having never encountered a six-legged dog before.
“Ariel was a complicated little dog,” Black explained. “We are a center committed to career-long learning and are proud to innovate and treat pets like Ariel.” The surgery aimed to improve Ariel’s mobility and overall quality of life, removing the non-functional extra limbs that extended from her right hindquarter.
Ariel’s journey to recovery captured the hearts of many, and Greenacres Rescue played a crucial role in her rehabilitation. The rescue organization took her in, providing care and raising funds for the intricate surgical procedure.
The adorable spaniel, previously walking somewhat awkwardly with the additional limbs, was seen running through the grass outside the veterinary hospital on Saturday, displaying the determination and exuberance typical of any four-legged companion. As Ariel was discharged, she navigated the hospital lawn with the curiosity of a bird dog, nose to the ground, and leash in tow—now just like any other happy and healthy dog.
Ariel’s story serves as a testament to the dedication of veterinary professionals and the resilience of animals, demonstrating that with innovative care, even the most unique challenges can be overcome.
Paraluman P. Funtanilla
Paraluman P. Funtanilla is Tutubi News Magazine's Marketing Specialist and is a Contributing Editor. She finished her degree in Communication Arts in De La Salle Lipa. She has worked as a Digital Marketer for start-up businesses and small business spaces for the past two years. She has earned certificates from Coursera on Brand Management: Aligning Business Brand and Behavior and Viral Marketing and How to Craft Contagious Content. She also worked with Asia Express Romania TV Show.
