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CALDWELL, Idaho (AP) — A 9-week-old black Chihuahua mix born with both male and female reproductive organs has undergone surgery and is now a female.
The West Valley Humane Society in the southwest Idaho city of Caldwell says the pup named Charcoal is healing and as of Tuesday is available for adoption.
Shelter Operations Director Cherisse Faulkner says Charcoal was part of a litter born to a stray dog brought to the facility. The puppies remained in foster care for eight weeks.
The American Veterinary Medical Association says animals born with both male and female reproductive organs are rare, but not completely unusual. The association says numbers aren't tracked.
Faulkner says Charcoal's surgery was needed to avoid future infections, which are common in dogs with both sex organs.
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