National

‘Happiest’ puppy at shelter doesn’t know he was born different — with no elbows

There’s no other dog like Otter
There’s no other dog like Otter Photo grab from Central PA Humane Society’s Facebook page

A very special dog in Pennsylvania is on the look out for an accommodating — and loving — home that will give him the love he seeks.

It’s not every day you see a puppy like Otter. In fact, it’s extremely rare.

“Otter is a 6 month old English Bulldog mixed with a Beagle. Otter is about 30lbs currently. Otter is very unique in the sense he does not have elbows (confirmed via X-rays!) He walks differently due to this deformity,” the Central Pennsylvania Humane Society in Altoona said in a Sept. 30 Facebook post.

“He is constantly in the downward dog yoga pose. It doesn’t stop him! He gets around perfectly fine! In the future, he could have some issues with his front legs.”

None of that slows down Otter, however.

“Otter is the happiest and friendliest guy. He craves human attention. He will crawl up your chest to shower your face with kisses. He absolutely loves toys,” the shelter said.

The puppy is up-to-date on his vaccinations and has tested well with both cats and dogs and loves children.

“He might be different, but he still deserves so much love.”

Altoona is about a 95-mile drive east from Pittsburgh.

Read Next

This story was originally published October 1, 2025 at 10:16 AM with the headline "‘Happiest’ puppy at shelter doesn’t know he was born different — with no elbows."

TJ Macias
Fort Worth Star-Telegram
TJ Macías is a Real-Time national sports reporter for McClatchy based out of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Formerly, TJ covered the Dallas Mavericks and Texas Rangers beat for numerous media outlets including 24/7 Sports and Mavs Maven (Sports Illustrated). Twitter: @TayloredSiren
Get unlimited digital access
#ReadLocal

Try 1 month for $1

CLAIM OFFER