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By Alice Gibbs
Senior Reporter
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At just 8 weeks old, pit-bull puppy Sebastian found himself in the care of a shelter in California. But unlike his littermates, Sebastian was born a little different—with a limb difference that has left one of his front legs largely unusable.
"Sebastian came to the shelter as an owner surrender with a few of his siblings," Wags and Walks, in Los Angeles, California, told Newsweek. "He was born with the limb difference. It's a congenital defect."
Sebastian's front paw, which looks a little like a claw, hasn't slowed him down, and he has continued to navigate puppyhood despite the difference. But this has left the small limb covered in wounds.
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"The limb isn't really usable, but he's been trying to use it as any growing puppy would, which has left it covered in wounds that became infected," Wags and Walks said.
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To give Sebastian the quality of life he deserves, the rescue team says the damaged limb will be amputated. Postoperative care, including potential physical therapy, will help him adjust to life as a tripod pup. "Especially for a puppy who is still growing, it is important we support the rest of his body to develop properly," the rescue said.
This isn't the first time that a three-legged pup has proven a difference won't slow him down. Earlier this year, Freya the dog lost her front leg but showed everyone it wouldn't slow her down; she still enjoys running in the park, hiking trails and playing with other dogs.
In 2024, 2-year-old mixed breed Pippa was found roaming the streets of New Orleans with a broken leg after being hit by a car. Her leg and tail were amputated, but a new bond with a fellow canine companion helped her come out of her shell.
Sebastian's story captured hearts online, when the shelter shared his story on Facebook with the caption: "Sebastian is an 8-week old Pit Bull who was born a little different."
In response, people shared their reactions in the comments. "Prayers for a forever home," posted Dixie, while Phyllis wrote: "He is adorable."
Sebastian is currently available through a foster-to-adopt program, though Wags and Walks will wait to finalize any adoption until after his surgery.
For now, the little claw that helped him hobble through his earliest days may soon make way for a new chapter, and the shelter hopes he will have a happy future ahead.
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