ATHENS, Ga. -- A six-legged deer found in north Georgia has died following surgery at a private Athens animal clinic to remove its two extra legs, which were hindering its gait.

SLIDESHOW: Six-Legged Deer Found In North Georgia

The deer, called Spyder, died Aug. 20, two days after surgery. The veterinary surgeons who performed the 3 1/2 hour operation on Aug. 18 said Spyder seemed to be healing well but then died suddenly of what appeared to be a vascular problem.

The unusual deer was found July 18 by a couple whose dogs had chased it near Armuchee in northwest Georgia. It was initially treated for minor injuries from the dogs and then sent to live with an Athens woman who has a permit to keep unique animals in captivity.

Veterinarians said they aren't sure why the animal had an extra set of hind legs.