Elvis was the only pup born of Patches. He has a cleft palate, giving him a permanent sneer; hence his name.
Weak from the outset, Elvis needed all the help he could get, and his human parents stood up to the plate: they fed and watered the little dog until, in due course, his strength grew and he was able to get around on his own.
Help from Mum
At least, he tried to get around by himself, because Elvis’s next task was to try to walk on all fours. And it was with the help of his mother that he finally mastered the art.
The video, filmed by Patches’ owner, shows the moment the loving mother helps Elvis to navigate the floor. Originally posted ten years ago, the video has now been viewed by over 12 million people.
Happy dog
In the end, Elvis was given to the vet who cared for the puppy in the weeks following his birth, and by all accounts, Elvis is very happy and settled in his new home.
Patches remains with her original owner, and is no doubt confident in the knowledge that she and the humans around her gave Elvis the best start in life.
