When you see Putol racing down the street on just her front legs, it’s hard not to smile—and even harder not to be inspired.
Born without her back legs, Putol had a rough start to life. She was abandoned as a puppy in Quezon Province, Philippines, and left without much hope.
But everything changed when she met Danilo Codilego Jr., a local truck driver who saw something special in her that no one else did.
Danilo first encountered Putol six years ago while working at a bakery. A coworker arrived with four tiny puppies, hoping to sell them.
While the others were quickly adopted, no one wanted the puppy with just two legs. They assumed she wouldn’t survive. But Danilo couldn’t walk away—not from a dog who deserved a chance.
“I couldn’t stop thinking about her,” he said. “Everyone thought she wouldn’t make it, but I wanted to prove them wrong.”
He brought her home, gave her the name Putol (meaning “chopped” in Tagalog—a name born from her condition, but now said with love), and began the long journey of helping her grow strong.
For the first two years, Putol struggled to move on her own. But slowly, and with a lot of determination, she learned to balance on her front legs. Now? She doesn’t just walk—she runs, plays, and even patrols Danilo’s yard like a seasoned guard dog.
“She’s protective, loyal, and even a little jealous if I pet other dogs,” Danilo shared with a laugh. “But she’s incredibly sweet and well-loved by everyone in the neighborhood.”
Putol is a local legend in their small community. Her spirit, resilience, and zest for life have made her a neighborhood favorite. Despite her physical limitations, she thrives—and she’s never let her disability define her.
“She eats whatever we eat, she’s not picky, and when I’m away for work, the neighbors all look after her,” Danilo said. “She’s part of the family.”