Meet Lucy, the Tri-pod Dachshund

Posted by Barbara Techel

I often get emails from other dachshund and dog owners of physically challenged dogs they have.  They always warm my heart to meet them via photos and stories from their owners.  With permission from Sarah I am posting Lucy’s pictures and story.

Lucy is a tri-pod doxie from Spokane, WA.  I had never met a tri-pod doxie so I was very curious about her.  With dachshund’s legs’ being so short I would think it was even harder for her to adjust verses a dog with longer legs.

Lucy has been without her front leg since birth.  Her right shoulder is in place, but then there is just a tiny piece of her leg bone, but nothing below that.  As you might imagine her left leg has had to compensate and make up for the difference.  It is very well developed and Lucy sort of hops like a bunny.  She turns her front leg inward and spreads her toes to keep her balance.

Sarah adopted 3-year old Lucy as an adult from Dachshund Rescue NW after seeing her on Pet Finder.  The stories of why these animals are released to a shelter are not always clear.  But, Sarah said Lucy was reportedly given up by the previous owner because of an allergy their young child developed.

Lucy’s name before she came to live with Sarah was Eileen, because well, she does rather lean to one side.  But that does not stop her from being a full-fledged dachshund!

Sarah said what caught her eye about Lucy was that she was so pretty.  I must agree whole-heartily!  She is a doll!  Lucy was also advertised as a “two for one” special.

Sarah said, “She came with a giant stuffed dog named Odie.”  They think Lucy fell in love with the stuffed dog before she came to rescue, so the pretend dog goes along with Lucy wherever she goes.

Sarah said, “It is so adorable to see 11-pound Lucy drag around a giant stuffed dog.”

She went on to say, “She sleeps with Odie every night and it is her security blanket.  If she is frightened she runs and snuggles with Odie.”

Sarah wrote that she is amazed everyday by Lucy and how she does not see herself with a disability.  She chases around her doggy brothers at top speed, climbs all over the couch and wrestles with her squeaky toys.

“Her favorite thing to do is patrol the front yard to make sure no squirrel is left un-harassed and she is very true to her hunting dog origin!”

Lucy is just another beautiful, shining example that a disabled dog can live a full, happy life.  Frankie and I are so proud of you, Lucy for giving it all you’ve got… and just as proud of your Mom, Sarah for opening her heart to you.  We have a feeling she feels very blessed to have you in her life.

Thank you, Sarah for letting me share your story with my readers.  Hugs to you and Lucy!