Kitten loses two legs to surgery but gains new life.
Ariel, a kitten born in the Bradenton area three months ago, came into the world with her umbilical cord wrapped around her legs. She immediately lost both of her hind feet and was so seriously deformed that her veterinarian recommended she be euthanized.
But the Humane Society of Manatee County fought to save Ariel, even after a severe infection required them to amputate all of one hind leg and much of another. Now she has adjusted to her new life and can do anything a four-legged cat can do -- except use a litter box. The society is looking for a special forever home for Ariel, and trying to get her a wheelchair so she can scoot around on her own.
You can see a video about Ariel by going to the "Bradenton Herald" Web site by clicking here.
ANGIE BRENNAN, a Sun-Sentinel page designer,
lives with four dogs and one boyfriend. And has a lifetime of animal stories to share.
DIANE LADE, a reporter on the Sun-Sentinel's Help Team, has lived with cats, dogs, reptiles, fish, an iguana, and an armadillo.
CYNDI METZGER, editor of the Sun-Sentinel's Outlook section, is smitten with Bella, her poodle who regularly ignores requests to sit, stay and get off the ivory-colored sofa. 
JOHN TANASYCHUK, a Sun-Sentinel lifestyle writer, has lived with cats as long as he can remember. He and his partner currently share their home with three.
