Dog’s Tragic Past Discovered When Groomer Attempts to Trim Her Ear
When 11-year-old Patches was brought into the Animal Friends of the Valleys shelter, her matted fur reeked of urine and her dark coat showed signs of longtime neglect. As groomer Mel prepared to give Patches a much-needed makeover, she wondered if the senior dog’s fur could be saved at all. (Watch full video above)
Turning a Corner Towards Comfort
Yet as soon as Patches was lifted into the bath, her demeanor noticeably shifted. “Some dogs get really nervous in the bath and others find it comforting,” said Pet Rescue Advocate Rocky. “I think Patches is one of those who find it comforting.” Patches relaxed in the warm water, despite years of potential anxiety and boredom that likely led to her self-grooming obsession.
Signs of Past Trauma
As Mel groomed, she uncovered hints of Patches’ troubling past, including an ear that had been cut straight across. “I’m trying to trim this ear and I’m like, why isn’t it matching up [with the other ear]?” Mel said as she felt the blunt edge of the ear under the fur. The injury, likely from a past traumatic grooming session or negligent owner, was not visible underneath Patches’ regrown hair. Still, Patches trusted Mel to trim the fur that had matted into thick cords around her legs and belly. “All those pin matting should hopefully brush out nice,” said an optimistic Mel.
A Bright Future Ahead
Thanks to Mel’s patience and Furbo’s sponsorship of the grooming costs, Patches emerged sleek, cleaned and ready for a fresh start. Days later, a rescue stepped up to bring Patches into their care. Despite her past hardships, this resilient senior dog continues to embrace each new chance at life with an open and trusting heart. “Patches is just another example of how we can learn so much from dogs,” Rocky said.
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