Rare 5-Legged puppy named Bella available for adoption at Wisconsin Humane Society

KENOSHA, Wis (WRJN) – The Wisconsin Humane Society is currently caring for a rare puppy named Bella who was born with five legs. Despite her unique condition, the happy brindle-coated dog is available for adoption at the organization’s Kenosha campus.

Bella’s abnormality, known as polymelia, is almost unheard of in canines. X-rays revealed she has two femurs, two tibias, two fibulas, and nine toes on her hind leg. “She’s like a totally unicorn dog,” said Angela Speed, Vice President of Communications for the Wisconsin Humane Society, in an interview on The Don Rosen Show.

Bella’s story has gained national and international media attention, with the some of the initial coverage coming from Italy.

Despite her rare condition, the six-month-old puppy is happy, healthy, and weight-bearing. Veterinary specialists advised leaving her as is since she is not in any pain. “Bella doesn’t care, like she likes to go for walks, and she loves chicken, and she’s just a happy, happy dog,” Speed told Rosen.

The Wisconsin Humane Society is hoping Bella’s unique case will shed light on the many other dogs available for adoption. The organization has experienced a dramatic increase in stray and surrendered dogs in recent months, likely due to economic factors. “We have absolutely experienced dramatic increases in intake the last few months, especially stray and surrendered dogs. And any given day right now, we can have 80 to 100 dogs available across the organization, it’s been at least a decade since we’ve seen as many local dogs coming through the doors,” Speed explained

To encourage adoptions, the Humane Society is offering a 50% discount on dog and puppy adoption fees through the end of April. They also have a foster program for those who want to temporarily care for animals.

The organization relies on community donations to cover the increasing costs of specialized medical treatments for many animals. Donations are currently being matched through April 30th.

Those interested in adopting Bella can visit the Kenosha campus. The Wisconsin Humane Society has six campuses across the state, in Kenosha, Racine, Milwaukee, Saukville, Door County, and Green Bay, as well as a spay/neuter clinic in West Allis.