DURAND, IL (WIFR/CNN) - A one-legged duck is getting a chance to waddle for the first time in a new rehab center. And along with a prosthetic leg, Snuggles the duck has made a new life-long feathered friend.
“I think she represents hope,” said Karen Herdklotz, the Hoo Haven director. Snuggles was born unable to walk. For two years she lived uncomfortably sitting on her legs, but that hasn't brought her down.
"Snuggles came with such a spirit after having that kind of life for two years. Most animals are cranky or whatever. She just had an ever-giving spirit,” Herdklotz said.
Snuggles is being cared for at Hoo Haven Rehabilitation Center. That's where she met her new and unusual best friend, Buttercup the pelican.
Despite their differences, the two feathery friends share an inseparable bond. "He found Snuggles. He went over and he's just, he's just adopted her. He sleeps by her. He grooms her. He does not stray far from her,” Herdklotz said.
Hoo Haven hopes those who hear about Snuggles will help her walk again. The Rehab Center is getting Snuggles a new wheelchair and is also raising money for a prosthetic leg so she can walk for the very first time.
"It's about hope and love and caring for one another. When people come out here for a tour and they just see Snuggles in the wheelchair, they immediately just feel the touch in their heart," said Donald Czyzyk, marketing and public relations coordinator for Hoo Haven.
Snuggles future is brighter than ever and she sure is one lucky duck. "She might be in a wheelchair, or she's not the perfect runner, by golly she's going to be a star," Herdklotz said.
Hoo Haven has already raised more than $1,300 for Snuggles' prosthetic leg.
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