Many stray and neglected dogs suffer from the lack of grooming, leading to distress as their fur becomes tangled and matted. However, a simple haircut can make all the difference. Today, we want to share the heartwarming story of a dog who received a life-changing makeover.
The South Plains SPCA recently encountered the “worst case of dog neglect” they had ever seen. They discovered a 6-year-old dog covered in severely matted and thick fur, in poor physical condition. The dog’s skin was rotten, and the hair had grown into the skin. His nails were painfully long, and his hair had been matting for about five years.
The South Plains SPCA took him in and named him Matt, after his matted fur. Despite the deplorable condition he was found in, they were determined to give him a second chance at life. However, Matt’s hair was so intertwined with stickers, sticks, grass, and even beetles that every attempt to cut his fur caused him pain. They had to sedate him and shave off a staggering three pounds of fur.
Matt’s body showed severe bruises from the tightness of the matting. He was anemic and required medication. However, he tested negative for heartworm and tick diseases, as ticks couldn’t penetrate through his thick fur. Although Matt still has a long recovery road ahead, the SPCA plans to provide him with dental work once his blood work clears him for the procedure.
After removing all the matted fur, Matt’s appearance transformed dramatically. The South Plains SPCA enlisted the help of a professional groomer, who also happened to be an SPCA foster, to give Matt the makeover he deserved. The result was astonishing. Matt looked like a completely different dog and was described as “drop-dead gorgeous” by those who saw him.
Grateful for his newfound freedom from the burden of matted fur, Matt has been embracing his happy, normal life. He enjoyed his very first walk in years without the excessive hair weighing him down. His tail wagged happily, and he radiated pure joy.
Currently, Matt is under the care of Tori Houston, an SPCA foster, and will be available for adoption once he has fully recovered. It’s heart-wrenching to think that Matt was neglected for so long, enduring the discomfort of matted fur. But we take solace in knowing that he is now safe, groomed, and on his way to a new and happy life.
This heartwarming transformation serves as a reminder of the importance of proper grooming and care for our furry friends. Let’s work together to ensure that no dog suffers from neglect and that all can experience the joy of a fresh start.
