Simon, an elderly dog, was spotted wandering the streets of Kansas City, Missouri. But unlike most strays, his appearance made people stop and stare.
When he entered KC Pet Project, a local animal shelter, his matted coat was so overgrown that he looked as if he had six legs.
A Much-Needed Haircut
The staff wasted no time and brought Simon straight to the clinic. His coat was in such bad condition that immediate attention was necessary.
“He sort of looked like a prehistoric creature. Seeing him try to move with all that hair, it was absolutely heartbreaking,” said Tori, a staff member.
Two veterinary assistants stepped in to help, and together they began the long process of shaving him down.
The grooming session lasted nearly two hours. By the end, more than 6.5 pounds of tangled fur had been removed. Afterward, Simon enjoyed a warm bath and was placed on medical hold for monitoring during his stay.
Even after all of this, the 11-year-old dog remained curious about his surroundings. With his vision cleared and his legs free, Simon eagerly explored each new corner of the shelter.
“Every day that he was here, he was healing, and it took him a long time to learn how to really walk again normally.”
Each day he continued to recover. Learning to walk properly again took time, but with every step he grew stronger. Adjusting to his new short coat was also a challenge at first, yet soon Simon began feeling healthier and more comfortable than ever.
A New Life Ahead
A few weeks later, Simon started catching the attention of potential adopters. He soaked up every bit of affection that came his way.
“They were just scratching on him, and he was loving it. And then he just looked happy as a cucumber.“
The shelter staff could not have been happier when Simon finally found a family to take him home.
Knowing all that he went through before he came to KC Pet Project, for him to just go out and live out the rest of his days in a home is wonderful.
Why Grooming Matters
Regular grooming is essential for a pet’s health. Without it, fur can become tangled and lead to severe matting.
When a dog’s coat is left in that state, skin irritation, infections, and poor air circulation can occur. The trapped moisture creates a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.
Matting also prevents proper temperature control, which can cause overheating and even heat stroke. Over time, neglected coats may contribute to long-term health problems that could have been avoided.
Beyond the medical reasons, grooming is also a special way to bond with your pet, giving them both comfort and attention.
So take the time to brush your dog’s coat. It keeps them healthy, and it makes them feel loved.