Animal rescue teams and volunteers encounter countless challenging scenarios daily, often leaving them at a loss for words.
Yet, coming across a forsaken dog in such a state of neglect that its head and tail are indistinguishable presents an entirely new level of hardship.
Such was the case for a rescue group in Lubbock, Texas, when they discovered a dog in dire straits. They recognized instantly the daunting task before them.
Nevertheless, they were resolute in their mission to offer this dog a fresh start.
Tori Houston, a South Plains SPCA volunteer, received a distressing call from her supervisor, Kim Moyers, about a forsaken dog discovered on Lubbock’s streets in dire need of rescue.
Houston recounted to PEOPLE, “Upon my arrival, I was confronted with a sight that was beyond anything I’d ever witnessed; the dog was so overgrown with hair that distinguishing its front from its back was impossible. It was laden with burrs and emitted an overwhelming odor. Its appearance was akin to a mound of unshorn wool.”
Kim Moyers, the organization’s president, remarked that the dog’s coat was matted to an extent indicative of about five years of neglect, making for a particularly distressing first encounter at the rescue facility.
The SPCA expressed on their official Facebook page, “This is the most severe case of canine neglect we’ve seen. Efforts to groom him have been futile due to the density and matting of his fur. The dog suffers from skin decay and matting so severe that it has grown into his flesh, and his nails have overgrown to two inches. Countless burrs are embedded within the matted fur and his skin.”
In their update, they mentioned the shocking discovery of a leash entangled within the dog’s matted hair, leading to a collar that had become embedded in its neck, a sight seldom encountered.
It was astounding that this six-year-old dog managed to endure such appalling neglect. It was a sorrowful realization that he had remained unseen and unaided for so long.
Thankfully, fate intervened, and the dog encountered those who could provide the care he so urgently needed.
Beneath the Neglect, A Handsome Pup Emerged
The SPCA reached out to the community, urging those who could to contribute whatever possible, as the extensive treatment required for the dog was costly.
The plight of the dog, affectionately named Matt, resonated with many, and it wasn’t long before sufficient funds were raised for his care.
Matt was then taken to Ark Hospital for Pets for medical attention and a thorough grooming by Kayla’s Grooming Service.
Kayla Thurmon, a volunteer at the service, managed to remove nearly three pounds of fur from the 14-pound dog—a staggering amount!
This grooming not only provided a clearer view of his health condition but also revealed the handsome dog that had been concealed beneath the mass of fur.
Unveiling the Hidden Beauty of Matt
“After our skilled groomer, who also volunteers as a foster for the SPCA, finished with him, he was transformed,” Houston expressed. “He’s the most stunning dog I’ve ever laid eyes on. Absolutely breathtaking.”
Regarding his health, it was found that he was suffering from anemia, necessitating a course of iron supplements. Moreover, he was afflicted with an eye infection that required treatment.
Houston speculated, “It’s likely due to the inability to see through the accumulated dirt and debris in his fur.”
Despite the myriad of challenges, particularly his health issues, Houston was captivated by his adorable demeanor and chose to foster him herself over the ensuing months until he found a permanent home.
Finding the Family He Was Meant For
Shortly after Matt entered her foster care, Tori updated her Facebook friends about his progress, sharing that he was thriving.
“Today, we enjoyed walks in the park both in the morning and evening. He’s so enthusiastic about our strolls. He voiced his opinion at some passersby, vehicles, and other canines. Although he’s not fond of his iron and eye medication, little does he know, it’s all to aid him in becoming his healthiest self,” she posted.
Day by day, Matt’s condition steadily improved on all fronts: physically, health-wise, and emotionally. Freed from the excess weight of his matted fur, his recovery was swift and remarkable.
In just a month and a half, the SPCA was thrilled to share on Facebook that Matt was turning over a new leaf.
“Introducing, for the first time ready for adoption, our very own MATT!!” they announced, providing all the essential details about this charming canine.
While it took a moment for his true potential to be seen, it didn’t take long for that pivotal moment to arrive — the happiest of his life.
The SPCA joyfully reported on their Facebook page that Matt found his forever home that month, alongside other fortunate dogs.
For Matt, life took a turn for the better – he was no longer burdened by tangled fur and his health was fully restored.
He found the loving home he was meant to have, and as his fur regrew, it was just the right amount to accentuate his handsome appearance.
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