An adorable dog who was once abandoned and left to die has defied all odds, learning to walk and even run on just her two front legs—all thanks to the love and dedication of her kind-hearted owner. Meet Putol, a six-year-old dog with a remarkable story of survival, resilience, and unbreakable spirit.
Putol, whose name means “chopped” in Tagalog, was born with a deformity that left her without her two back legs. Most would have assumed her life would be cut short, but Putol refused to give up. Today, she’s often seen dashing through the streets of Casiguran in Quezon City, Philippines, playing with other dogs, bringing smiles to neighbors, and living a life full of joy and purpose. Her journey from being unwanted and helpless to becoming a neighborhood icon is nothing short of inspiring.
Her owner, Danilo Codilego Jr., is a truck driver who was working at a bakery when fate brought them together. He remembers the moment vividly: “We met six years ago. I was working in a bakery then. One day a co-worker came in carrying four tiny puppies. He was trying to sell them for 5000 pesos each—about \$115. The other three puppies were healthy and quickly found new homes. But no one wanted the poor two-legged pup. Everyone thought she wouldn’t live long. She looked so fragile. But I looked at her and felt something. I was the only one who had the courage to take care of her. We took a chance because we felt sorry for her. From that moment, she became part of my life.”
Danilo named her Putol, which directly translates to “chopped” in Tagalog, not to be cruel, but to reflect her unique condition. It was a name born from compassion and acceptance, and it stuck.
The first two years of Putol’s life were the hardest. She couldn’t walk, couldn’t run, and struggled just to move around. It was heartbreaking to see her struggle, but she never gave up. Little by little, with Danilo’s help and encouragement, she began to learn how to balance on her front legs. It wasn’t easy. There were many falls, many failed attempts, but eventually, she found her rhythm. Soon, she was able to walk—and then run—on just her two front legs.
Now, Putol is a force to be reckoned with. She’s confident, energetic, and has an unmistakable personality. She loves exploring the neighborhood, playing with other dogs, and most of all, she loves protecting her home and the man who gave her a second chance. According to Danilo, “Putol acts like a guard dog. She barks when someone unfamiliar comes near the house. She’s very loyal to me. She even gets jealous if I pet or play with another dog. But otherwise, she’s friendly and everyone in the neighborhood loves her.”
Her presence has brought joy to the entire community. Locals know her by name, and she’s become a bit of a local celebrity. Children love watching her zip down the street, and adults marvel at her determination. “She’s a happy dog,” Danilo says. “She never acts like she’s different. She just lives her life the best way she can.”
What makes Putol’s story even more powerful is the bond she shares with Danilo. It’s not just about survival—it’s about loyalty, unconditional love, and the power of believing in someone when no one else will. Danilo never once saw Putol’s disability as a burden. Instead, he saw a life worth saving, a soul worth loving.
Despite her disability, Putol lives a relatively normal life. She eats what Danilo eats and doesn’t require any special treatment. “She’s not picky,” Danilo says. “She eats what we eat—rice, meat, vegetables. She’s just part of the family. The only thing is, because of her condition, she can’t have puppies.”
When Danilo has to leave for work, he doesn’t worry too much about Putol. The neighborhood looks after her, and she’s comfortable being with people she trusts. Her independence is impressive, and her ability to adapt has earned her admiration from all who meet her.
Putol’s journey is a testament to the incredible resilience of animals and the profound impact that one person’s compassion can have. She was given no chance by most, yet she turned that around with the help of someone who believed in her. Stories like hers remind us of the power of second chances and the beauty that comes from embracing life, no matter how different or challenging it may be.
Her story isn’t just about a dog who learned to walk on two legs. It’s about the power of love, the importance of not giving up, and the strength that comes from being accepted for who you are. In a world that often overlooks those who are different, Putol stands tall—on just her front legs—and shows us what true strength looks like.
She may not have all four legs, but she has more heart than most. And thanks to Danilo’s compassion and faith, she’s not just surviving—she’s thriving. Her story is an inspiration to us all, a reminder that even in the darkest of beginnings, light can find a way. Putol’s life is proof that love and perseverance can turn what seems impossible into something extraordinary.
