Puppy born with malformed front legs 'thriving' at new home

March 3 (UPI) -- A Texas couple who took in a puppy born without use of his front legs said they didn't expect him to live, but he is now thriving two months later.

Lou Robinson, founder of animal advocacy group WEAR, and her husband, Mark Bowlin, took in the tiny boxer after he was born at the start of January and it soon became clear he wasn't capable enough to be left with his mother.

The puppy, which they dubbed Nubby, was born with malformed front legs curl under his body and a problem with his esophagus.

"We initially had no expectations we could get him through as a neo-natal disabled baby," Robinson told Pickle. "Then day three came and went, day seven, day 10, day 16 and Nubby thrived."

They said the rest of the dogs at their home, which doubles as a sanctuary dubbed Hillcrest Manor, helped care for Nubby.

"Our pack filled in the dog love and dog care, the nudging, the licking, the warmth," Robinson said. "Together at Hillcrest Manor a true miracle in our eyes was taking place. Nubby did not know he was disabled, Nubby did not realize he was different."

A Facebook page set up to chronicle Nubby's life has amassed thousands of fans, who have been giving donations to help with his care.

The couple said Nubby has been learning to walk on his hind legs.

"Hopefully Nubby will go on to help educate others about being different is OK," Robinson said.