“Being Different Is a Special Thing”: Tilly the Pup with a Curved Spine Finds Her Forever Home
When Marie Giannini met Tilly, she immediately knew the little pup was something special — not in spite of her differences, but because of them.
Marie had responded to an online ad about a litter of puppies that needed homes. But when she arrived, she was told that one puppy was “deformed” and that no one wanted her — meaning euthanasia might be the only option.
“They said one of the pups was deformed and they couldn’t find her a home,” Marie recalled. “But I had already fallen in love with her and planned our next year together before they even finished saying that awful sentence.”
A Rare Condition, A Unique Pup
Tilly was born with short spine syndrome, a rare condition that gives her a very compact body — almost no neck and a short, stiff back. But when Marie first held the scruffy little fluffball in her hands, she couldn’t believe anyone would reject such a beautiful soul.
“She fit right into my hand,” Marie said. “As we drove home, she lay in my lap and looked up at me with her big brown eyes. I promised her then she’d never feel unwanted again.”
Living Life Without Limits
Though her spine looks different, Tilly lives a full and healthy life. She plays, runs, and cuddles just like any other dog. The only adjustments she needs are a little help getting on furniture — for which she has a custom ramp — and some daily scratch sessions from Mom since she can’t quite reach those itchy spots.
“She sleeps in bed with me like a little human,” said Marie. “Head on the pillow, legs tucked under the blanket. She’s always near me — when I cook, she stands between my legs; when I study, she’s next to me with her paw on me.”
Tilly also insists on regular affection:
“Every hour or so, she comes up just to give me kisses, then goes back to lie down. It’s like clockwork — like she needs kisses to function!”
A Pup Who Turns Heads and Warms Hearts
Tilly gets a lot of attention when she’s out — from both humans and other dogs. Her unique appearance sparks curiosity, but it’s her joyful, confident spirit that wins hearts.
“Other dogs are usually more gentle with her,” said Marie. “But Tilly doesn’t care — she knows she can do anything. She’ll try to play with any dog of any size.”
“Being Different Is a Special Thing”
Marie says Tilly has changed her life in ways she never expected.
“Tilly reminds me every day to be grateful for one more day,” she said. “She’s proof that being different really is something special.”