DURAND, Ill. (WIFR) -- A feathered friend in Durand is getting a chance to walk for the first time with the help of a unusual friend. Snuggles the duck was born unable to walk. For 2 years she lived uncomfortably sitting on her legs., but that hasn't brought her down.

"Snuggles came with such a spirit. After having that kind of life, for two years most animals are cranky or whatever. She just had an ever-giving spirit," said director of Hoo Haven Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, Karen Herdklotz.

Snuggles is being cared for at Hoo Haven Rehabilitation Center. That's where she met her new and unusual friend, Buttercup the pelican. Despite their differences, the two feathery friends share an inseparable bond.

"He found Snuggles. He went over and he's just he's just adopted her. He sleeps by her, he grooms her. He does not stray far from her," said Herdklotz.

Hoo Haven hopes those who hear about Snuggles will help her walk. The rehab center is getting snuggles a new wheelchair and is also raising money for a prosthetic leg so she can walk for the very first time

.

"The story is so touching because it's it's about hope and love and caring for one another. When people come out here for a tour and they just see Snuggles in his wheelchair, they immediately just feel the touch in their heart," said marketing and public relations coordinator at Hoo Haven, Donald Czyzyk.

Snuggles future is brighter than ever and she sure is one lucky duck.

"Just because she might be in a wheelchair, or she's not the perfect runner, by golly she's going to be a star," said Herdklotz.