A dog with six legs undergoes surgery to remove the extra limbs
Ariel, a six-legged spaniel abandoned in a supermarket parking lot, recently underwent successful surgery to remove her extra limbs. The 11-week-old puppy, originally found near a Pembrokeshire B&M store, received global support, amassing about £15,000 for her operation.
Surgeon Aaron Lutchman was able to preserve all of her normal legs despite initial concerns. Ariel is recovering well and showing resilience despite a difficult start in life, with Mr. Lutchman optimistic about her future. Ariel was cared for by Greenacres Rescue's Mikey Lawlor, who noted her additional physical anomalies, including a second vulva and a single kidney, which complicated her medical care.
Despite challenges, such as a malformed pelvis and weak muscle tone in one leg, Ariel did not require further amputations and has shown improvement. Named after a Disney character due to her additional legs resembled a mermaid's tail, Ariel was treated at Langford Vets in Somerset. The surgeries lasted about two hours, and she quickly returned to eating, drinking, and walking.
Ariel will recuperate at her foster home in west Wales after being discharged, with physiotherapy to follow before seeking a permanent home. The outpouring of support for Ariel's story has been significant, with interest from as far away as New York and Australia.
Langford Vets' Vicki Black praised the collaborative effort of various specialist teams in Ariel's recovery, emphasizing the hospital's drive for innovation and learning. Ariel's progress has been celebrated, with hopes for her continued recovery and adoption into a loving home.