CONFUSED cocker spaniel Twixy is having a hard time coming to terms with the recent unveiling of its embarrassing secret.

Tony and Sally-Ann Wilding of Newton Drive, Blackpool, were shocked when faced with the staggering news surrounding their son Matthew's beloved pet, purchased last year as a present for the child's birthday from Pet World Superstore, Collingwood Avenue, Blackpool.

Eventually, Tony began to worry why Twixy hadn't come into season and decided to get her checked out at the local vets.

It was only then that a veterinary surgeon at the Layton Road centre in Blackpool, spotted the animal was in possession of both male and female reproductive organs, to everyone's surprise - suffering from the rare cross-sex condition, hermaphroditic.

Eight-year-old Matthew took the revelation well and jokingly remarked: "No wonder she enjoys playing out with the boys and kicking a football around."

Mum, Sally-Anne had her suspicions early on as she said: "Although we were all very shocked at the initial news, I recalled that when she got excited once, I thought I saw a something pop out from inside her.

"She is a very happy good natured dog and is an extremely well loved member of the family, which won't change in the slightest."

Tony added: "She cost £300 and we expected to breed her, which is completely out of the question now as she can never have puppies."

The couple have since written to the Kennel Club, who advised them to go to the local Fair Trading office.

A spokesperson at the Blackpool office confirmed: "the issue has been reported and the party involved has been advised accordingly.

"We do not get that many cases like this, it is quite unusual, but we have had a few."

the dogs secret was revealed both male and female reproductive organs during a routine check up by a vet.

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