Disabled But Dog-Gone Cute: 'Wheelie Pups'

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PORT WASHINGTON, N.Y. (CBS) ― You're about to meet three adorable puppies with a disability. They were born without front paws, and this holiday they were blessed with an easier way to get around.

CBS station WCBS-TV recently got a chance to visit with "The Wheelie Pups."

At first glance they resemble tiny kangaroos, but Venus, Carmen and Pablo, are 11-month-old Chihuahuas born without front legs. They were rescued from a heartless "backyard" animal breeder in Virginia, and now adopted into a loving Long Island, N.Y. home.

"The day I first set eyes on them we were instantly bonded," said Donna Imhof, who adopted all three dogs. "So the dogs looked at me and said, 'We think we need help,' and I looked at them and said, 'I think I can help you,' so it's been a team."

Imhof, a medical worker at the North Shore Animal League, fell head over heels in love at first sight with the disabled pups when they arrived for emergency health care, unable to walk, move, or even properly eat.

"We suspect this is really due to the fact of inbreeding, and unfortunately what happens with breeders is that if the dog is not perfect it is of no value to them," said Devera Lynn of North Shore.

Venus, the smallest at 2 1/2 pounds, was first to be examined, X-rayed and evaluated. It was quickly determined she, along with brother Pablo and sister Carmen, were physically healthy. All they needed was mobility, as soon as their bones stopped growing.

One thousand dollars later, these three front-wheel drive aluminum carts were assembled with Velcro straps and polar fleece padding for comfortable body support. They also have lightweight foam wheels for easy maneuvering to keep them mobile.

"The strap is her seat belt," one technician said. "Everyone who drives must have a seat. So there we go …

"[The idea] is to give them a long happy life instead of a life full of pain or problems, so we're hoping to venture out for a nice long doggie walk."

The Chihuahuas' hind feet are deformed from the hopping and their spines are curved, but with these unique custom-made carts their futures are doggone bright.

The adopted Chihuahuas could live to age 20, and will still need orthopedic care throughout their lives.
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