A two-headed puppy has been born in Peru, with its owner vowing that the rare animal will be treated exactly the same as its siblings.
The pooch was one of six puppies born to a Creole breed dog owned by the Huangal Ortiz family in the city of Bagua, in the Peruvian department of Amazonas.
In video footage, the tiny puppy can be seen with two noses and mouths, and four eyes – two of which are are located very close together, where both of its heads join.
This is the recently born two-headed puppy that is incredibly still alive in Peru
Percy Huangal Ortiz told ATV that while he was surprised about the puppy’s appearance, he would ensure it received the same care as the other puppies, and would consult a veterinarian to see whether it would have specific dietary requirements and care.
Apparently the canine has become something of star attraction, with curious neighbours visiting the household to see the ‘phenomenon’ for themselves.
And after footage of the pooch was shared on social media, people said they were amazed at its appearance.
One commented: ‘I want it. it is beautiful.’
Claudia V Hdez added: ‘The sad thing is that it is not going to live long… these cases end up like that.’
After footage of the pooch was shared on social media, people said they were amazed at its appearance
Owner Percy Huangal Ortiz said while he was surprised about the puppy’s appearance, he would take good care of it
But a concerned Edison Guerrero wrote: ‘Now there will be people claiming it is something from the devil.
‘Do not satanise a poor being, you should understand the reason and scientific logic that causes malformation. Help it and do not abuse it. Love and care is the best way to take care of it.’
This phenomenon – known as polycephaly – occurs when conjoined twins are born, as a result of offspring developing from an egg which has not separated properly after fertilisation.