The three-legged golden retriever named Bentley, owned by teacher Ashley Liberto, is set to receive a prosthetic leg – an impressive design created by a group of middle school students.
A group of students from Providence Day School in Charlotte, North Carolina, USA, collaborated to design and create a prosthetic leg for Bentley, the beloved pet of teacher Ashley Liberto. This project has become the most meaningful hands-on experience the students have had during their time at school.
Ms. Ashley adopted Bentley eight years ago and has formed a deep bond with her four-legged friend.
“Bentley is full of life and energy, always by my side and friendly with everyone,” Ashley shared with PEOPLE.
When Bentley began to limp a few months ago, Ashley was very worried. After the veterinarian took X-rays and discovered a malignant tumor in Bentley’s right front elbow, the dog had to undergo amputation of the affected limb.
“I don’t have children; I consider Bentley my child,” the teacher said, adding that she cried many times during that crisis.
The surgery was successful, and all cancerous cells were removed, but Bentley was left to adapt to life on three legs.
As her pet recovered from surgery, Ashley joined support groups for three-legged dogs and researched how to create a custom prosthetic for Bentley. However, the cost of such a product was beyond her financial means. Ashley had the idea to enlist her students’ help in making a prosthetic leg for Bentley to save on costs.
Bentley the dog is about to receive a prosthetic leg designed by a group of students from Providence Day School. (Photo: Providence Day School)
Providence Day School offers a class focused on computer design and 3D printing. The teacher in charge of the class, Todd Johnson, explained that this is an introductory class where students learn to create basic shapes—such as keychains—using technology. When Ms. Ashley suggested trying to make a prosthetic leg for her golden retriever, the students were eager to help.
“I think this is a great opportunity for students to see the practical applications of what they are learning in school. With focus, they can come up with feasible solutions,” Mr. Johnson remarked.
The class divided into small groups to brainstorm design ideas for Bentley. Ultimately, the chosen design came from Brandon Hollis’s group, who had previously taken sixth-grade math with Ms. Ashley. The students spent weeks creating a product that would genuinely help the three-legged dog.
“This is amazing because I never thought I would have the chance to create something so meaningful. Right now, our group just needs to make a few minor adjustments to perfect the design and ensure it fits Bentley perfectly,” Hollis said. Even after the class ended, the group continued working on the project during their free time.
Ashley was deeply moved by the students’ enthusiasm. “The kids are incredibly smart. I am proud that they can apply what they have learned to real-life situations,” she expressed.
