Derby was born with deformed forearms and front paws. However, a South Carolina-based 3D printing and manufacturing company has been able to give Derby a new lease on life by fitting him with 3D-printed prosthetics. Previously he had only been able to roam with limited mobility with the aid of a modified cart. And without that, he could barely get around on hard surfaces.
Tara Anderson, a CJP Project Manager with Rock Hill, SC-based 3D Systems, was first introduced to the lucky pup when she saw photos of him online through Peace and Paws Dog Rescue, a nonprofit organization based in Hillsborough, New Hampshire. Eventually, her heart won out and she made the commitment to do something unique.
With the help of her company team members plus industry professionals like animal prosthetics expert, Derrick Campana, Derby was fitted with a pair of limbs using 3D scanners and sophisticated 3D modeling software.
Sherri and Dom Portanova, who have since adopted the dog, say that “Derby now runs with the couple at least two to three miles every day and runs faster than both of us… He’s just so happy.” [source]
This heartwarming story will thaw even the coldest of Grinch-like hearts just in time for Christmas.
You can learn more about Derby’s story as well as the ProJet 5500X used to print his new limbs at 3dsystems.com/how-3d-printing-changed-life-derby-dog.
For more information on Peace and Paws, visit them at facebook.com/peaceandpawsdogrescue and pinterest.com/peaceandpaws.