Adopting a dog with a disability is one of the most compassionate and selfless acts a person can choose. These dogs, who often suffer from medical conditions beyond their control, frequently face a difficult and uncertain future. Their disabilities can make them appear less adoptable in the eyes of many people. Yet, beneath their physical challenges lies the same unconditional love, loyalty, and joy that all dogs possess. What truly makes a difference in their lives is not their limitations, but whether someone is willing to see beyond them and offer a chance at happiness.

Unfortunately, many people shy away from adopting disabled dogs, primarily due to the extra responsibilities and potential expenses. That decision is their right, of course. But it’s important to remember that a disability doesn’t make a dog any less deserving of love or incapable of living a joyful life. These dogs can form deep bonds, display remarkable resilience, and even inspire the people around them in profound ways. In fact, giving them a home might just be the most life-changing experience—for both the dog and the human.

That’s exactly what happened in the case of Ruhn, a puppy with only three legs. Despite what some may perceive as a limitation, Ruhn’s spirit was anything but limited. From the very beginning, he radiated happiness and positivity. His energy and enthusiasm were contagious, and he quickly proved that he was just as capable and joyful as any other pup.

When Brittany Ketcham first laid eyes on Ruhn, she didn’t know what to expect. A dedicated animal lover and experienced dog foster based in Virginia, Brittany had taken in and cared for many dogs before. But Ruhn was special. As she recalled in an interview with The Dodo, what struck her most wasn’t his missing leg—it was his attitude.

“You would never know he was missing a leg,” Brittany said. “He doesn’t miss a beat! He’s faster than some of the dogs, and he loves to dig…” She even shared that people often don’t realize he’s a tripod dog until she tells them. That’s how seamlessly he moves through the world—without a hint of hesitation or limitation.

Brittany has opened her home to numerous foster dogs, helping up to eleven puppies find safety, comfort, and love. But it wasn’t until Ruhn met a dog named Tricycle that something truly extraordinary happened. Tricycle, as his playful name suggests, was also a three-legged dog. When Ruhn met Tricycle, it was as if he recognized something familiar in him—someone who shared not just a physical condition, but also a perspective on life.

Their connection was instant. The bond they formed wasn’t just adorable—it was powerful. Ruhn seemed thrilled to meet another pup who looked and moved like him. Brittany described it beautifully: “Ruhn loves other dogs, and I think he was so excited to see a dog walking/hopping like him. He immediately started playing with him and trying to get him to run around.”

In many ways, Ruhn took Tricycle under his wing, becoming a sort of mentor to his new friend. He guided him, played with him, and showed him how to embrace life despite any physical limitations. For Brittany, watching this relationship unfold was deeply moving. She had fostered many dogs, but this was something truly unique—a friendship rooted in mutual understanding and shared experience.

“I have taken a step back from fostering because we’re at 12 permanent dogs right now,” Brittany explained. “But when I saw one was a tripod, I told her I’d take him.” That decision changed everything—not just for Tricycle, but for Ruhn as well. It gave Ruhn a companion who understood him in a way no other dog could. And it gave Tricycle someone to look up to, someone who had already figured out how to thrive as a tripod pup.

Their friendship blossomed quickly. They played, explored, and chased each other around the yard. They became inseparable, and it was clear that they brought each other comfort and joy. It’s one thing to be accepted by others, but to be understood—truly understood—by someone who shares your journey is an entirely different experience.

While Ruhn remains friendly with all the other dogs in Brittany’s care, his connection with Tricycle is something special. They aren’t just playmates—they’re kindred spirits. Watching them together, one can’t help but feel uplifted. Their story is a reminder that love, acceptance, and friendship transcend physical differences.

What lies ahead for these two incredible dogs is still unknown. Ideally, Tricycle will find a loving forever home close to Ruhn, allowing their bond to continue growing. But no matter what the future holds, the impact they’ve had on each other—and on everyone who’s witnessed their journey—is undeniable.

Their story is more than just a cute tale about two dogs with three legs. It’s about resilience, connection, and the beauty of embracing those who are different. It’s about recognizing the potential in every living being, regardless of the challenges they face. Most of all, it’s about the life-changing magic that happens when someone dares to say “yes” to a dog who simply needs a chance.

If you’ve ever considered adopting a dog with a disability, let this be your sign. You might think you’re giving them a second chance—but don’t be surprised when they change your life in return.