A shocking case of dog neglect recently came to light when a 6-year-old dog was rescued with severely matted fur. The dog’s transformation after receiving a much-needed haircut is nothing short of miraculous.
The South Plains SPCA shared a post about the rescue, describing it as the “worst case of dog neglect” they had ever encountered. The dog, later named Matt, was covered in thick, matted fur that had caused him immense distress. His skin was rotten in some areas, and his nails were overgrown.
According to Kim Moyers, president of the South Plains SPCA, Matt’s hair growth was estimated to be around five years of matting. “It’s just awful that he was probably seen in different places and overlooked,” Moyers said. “I don’t see how he hasn’t been seen roaming in the condition he was.”
The SPCA took Matt in and began the process of rehabilitating him. Due to the severity of his matting, Matt had to be sedated before his haircut. The grooming process was painstaking, with thousands of goathead stickers, sticks, and even beetles embedded in his fur. A staggering three pounds of fur was removed, revealing severe bruises on his body.
Despite the challenges he faced, Matt is now on the road to recovery. He has been placed on medication and will require dental work in the future. However, his transformation is already remarkable. After his grooming session, Matt looked like a new dog, with his foster carer, Tori Houston, describing him as “drop-dead gorgeous.”
As Matt settles into his new life, he is experiencing the joys of simple things like going for walks. His foster carer reported that he was overjoyed during his first walk without his matted fur, wagging his tail and moving his little bottom back and forth.
Matt’s story is a heartwarming reminder of the importance of animal rescue and rehabilitation. His transformation is a testament to the dedication of the South Plains SPCA and the kindness of his foster carer. Once Matt has fully recovered, he will be available for adoption, ready to start his new life with a loving family.
