After meeting Skipper, you’ll think: Now, I’ve seen it all. I’ve encountered plenty of unusual dogs—pups with tails on their foreheads, those with more ears than necessary, and many with unique characteristics. But six legs? That’s a surprise, even for me!
When Skipper, the Aussie-Border Collie mix, was born, experts anticipated a range of issues due to her remarkable condition. However, they were pleasantly surprised to find her completely healthy, with additional quirks, just lacking a loving human by her side.
A Pup Named Miracle
The staff at Neel Veterinary Hospital in Oklahoma City will always recall the day Skipper was born, as all her eight siblings looked nothing like her. Skipper was special from the moment she came into the world. Unfortunately, her mother rejected her, a common response for animals with pups perceived as different. However, that did not deter Skipper, or Miracle, as she was affectionately named, from challenging expectations.
In a social media statement by Neel Veterinary staff, it was disclosed that Skipper was born ALIVE with a rare condition:
“She has a type of congenital conjoining disorder called monocephalus dipygus and monocephalus rachipagus dibrachius tetrapus, meaning she has 1 head and chest cavity but 2 pelvic regions, 2 lower urinary tracts, 2 reproductive systems, 2 tails, and 6 legs. It is likely she was supposed to have a litter mate, but they did not separate in utero. She also shows signs of spina bifida along her spine.”
Further examinations confirmed that despite her extraordinary circumstances, Skipper was a healthy dog, experiencing no pain or discomfort.
Dr. Neel expressed a touching sentiment, stating, “
“She acts like a strong, healthy puppy so we want to give her the chance. It makes me really happy because she’s so strong! She’s kind of like the underdog, you know. You’re rooting for her.”
The origin of Skipper’s condition is complex; veterinarians believe it resulted from two embryos failing to separate during development. Unlike a conjoined twin, she was simply a pup with a couple of extras. To everyone’s amazement, all six of her legs appeared to function!
Nevertheless, following Skipper’s birth announcement on social media, many commented negatively, suggesting she shouldn’t have survived or should be euthanized because some pets aren’t meant to be saved. One man, however, stepped forward to accept Skipper, regardless of her diagnoses and differences.
Skipper’s Journey
Skipper, the most unique pup Oklahoma City has ever known, ultimately found a family despite her mother’s rejection. She was welcomed by two incredible human parents experienced in caring for dogs with special needs. Skipper’s Journey has been continuously documented on social media to keep everyone updated on her progress.
Sadly, as time passed, it became clear that Skipper’s condition was more severe than initially thought. Within a month of her settling into her new home and learning how to dog, she was diagnosed with hydrocephalus, adding to her growing list of challenges. This meant that in addition to regular physical therapy, she required frequent check-ups and CT scans. The little rockstar faced difficulties with puppy formula, as much of it ended up in her lungs.
Skipper spent many days at Neel Animal Hospital, undergoing treatment for her various conditions. Contrary to the initial belief that she would thrive, Skipper’s health proved to be quite delicate. Her dedicated humans worked tirelessly to fund her treatments and provide her with a warm, loving home.
Tragically, almost eight months after her birth, Skipper closed her eyes for the final time due to the combination of her health issues.
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported us and helped us give her the best life! She will forever be in our hearts,” expressed Skipper’s owners the morning she crossed the rainbow bridge.
Skipper truly proved all her doubters wrong, showing them that even against the odds, love and resilience can shine through.
Rest in peace, dear Skipper. You are now free to run through vibrant green pastures, accepted and loved by all the pups you meet, just as you should have been from the beginning.
