Tilly the Tibetan Spaniel with Short Spine Syndrome goes viral
A dog with a rare condition inspires comparisons to Jimothy the raccoon in an outpouring of affection online.
What to know
- Tilly, a 7-year-old Tibetan Spaniel with Short Spine Syndrome, became a viral sensation on Bluesky on August 20, 2026, with the post reaching nearly 1,900 likes.
- Commenters repeatedly compared Tilly to Jimothy, a famous Seattle raccoon with the same rare genetic condition, highlighting both animals' ability to thrive and inspire despite their disabilities.
- The overwhelming response focused on Tilly's cuteness and her role as neighborhood guardian, with widespread expressions of affection and admiration for her happy, healthy life.
The dispute Whether Short Spine Syndrome makes animals appear disfigured versus simply different—commenters defending Tilly reject the characterization of disfigurement and emphasize her healthy, happy life. · positions read across 29 posts and comments
Tilly and similar animals are inspiring examples of thriving despite disability and deserve celebration.
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“Both have Short Spine Syndrome, yet have grown and are leading (hopefully) healthy lives. It's actually rather inspiring!”
skulliboi.bsky.social · Bluesky ↗
Tilly is simply adorable and people want to cuddle and spoil her.
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“Tilly is an absolute precious loaf! Keeping everyone safe. 🍞🐾”
giovanalogan00.bsky.social · Bluesky ↗
Tilly's appearance is uncomfortable or off-putting rather than endearing.
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“Not to be cruel, but I'll be happy with this little short-term obsession winds down. Those poor things freak me out.”
sws1972.bsky.social · Bluesky ↗
“Tilly keeping an eye on the neighborhood ❤️”
Luca Galletti, Tilly's owner · Bluesky · Aug 20, 4:04 PM
Tilly 7-year-old Tibetan Spaniel with Short Spine SyndromeLuca Galletti Tilly's owner and original posterJimothy Viral Seattle raccoon with Short Spine Syndrome
The record 1 articles and posts · last 30 days
What people are saying 24 voices from 1 site · best of 29 · verbatim
- Aug 20
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well first she was just gonna check the flower bed but when her mom adjusted the blinds, then ok, neighborhood
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Or Tilly is looking for a certain raccoon by the name of Jimothy who also has short spine syndrome.
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Awwwww just like Timothy! She needs to have a bluesky account!!!
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OMG! She is adorable. Wish I could cuddle her.
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You and your family are amazing, the way you care for animals is so touching. Thanks for all you do.
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Half sized dog body. Full sized dog ego.
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Happy Thursday Tilly! So very nice to meet you! Look forward to see you more! Love Hugs and Prayers heading your way!
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Did the racoon get a haircut and spa day?
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Is that the same thing the raccoon, I'm sorry I can't remember his name, has with his spine?
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She looks like one of my favorite Bugs Bunny characters, and I mean that in a loving way. Anybody remember the Tasmanian Devil. He was such a handsome devil. 🤣😅
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She's not disfigured - she was born this way (and is by all accounts happy and healthy).
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She is so cute! And completely on duty to keep the neighbors safe!
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Same condition, I believe. Both have Short Spine Syndrome, yet have grown and are leading (hopefully) healthy lives. It’s actually rather inspiring!
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Not to be cruel, but I’ll be happy with this little short-term obsession winds down. Those poor things freak me out.
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Tilly is an absolute precious loaf! Keeping everyone safe. 🍞🐾
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Awww, he look so happy, i want to hug him :)
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Would love to hold and smooch that little sweetheart. 💖
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I think Tilly’s on the lookout for Jimothy. ❤️
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This baby has it all under control! ❤️💕
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A disfigured creature. How cute. Christonacracker
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Oooo can I pet him/her? Such a ting ball of cuteness
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Aww so cute! Just like Jimothy the famous raccoon from Seattle that has gone viral.
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L
Tilly keeping an eye on the neighborhood ❤️ IG: @tillythefriendlyloaf Short spine syndrome
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The original surveillance state, but with better aesthetics and a lower center of gravity. 10/10 for tactical loafing.