Dog with severely matted fur unable to move in care at Niagara Humane Society

A small breed dog with matted fur so severe it was unable to move on its own is being treated at the Niagara SPCA & Humane Society.

The female Shih-Tzu type dog came into the possession of the Society’s ‘Animal Services’ late Thursday evening after being found near a railroad track in Haldimand County in frigid weather.

Veterinary technicians shaved off the mats and also enlisted the services of a professional pet groomer.

The senior canine — who shelter staff named ‘Angel’ — was given a warm bath midway through her grooming to soften up the terrible matting on her legs.

After several hours of careful clipping, Angel was able to move her legs and head freely. She is now on a treatment plan under the guidance of a local veterinarian.

Tammy Gaboury, Animal Care Manager for the Niagara SPCA & Humane Society, says she was shocked when she first saw Angel and that it was apparent the dog suffered from years of neglect.

“The road ahead for Angel will be a long journey with extensive medical care,” Gaboury stresses.

Anyone wishing to support Angel in her recovery can do so via the Society’s CanadaHelps donation link. She is now recovering at a foster home.

Unfortunately, animal abuse and abandonment cases have been in the spotlight in the Niagara region the past month.

On Dec. 3 eight puppies were found abandoned in Grimsby, so young that their umbilical cords were still attached.

READ MORE: 8 puppies dumped in Grimsby had umbilical cords attached

At the end of November four malnourished puppies were rescued after being found in a box in a Niagara-on-the-Lake park.

READ MORE: 4 puppies found in box in Niagara-on-the-Lake park

The Niagara SPCA has turned Angel’s case over to Provincial Animal Welfare Services (PAWS) for further investigation.

Abuse and neglect of any animal is not tolerated in Ontario. If you think an animal is in distress or is being abused, call 1-833-926-4625.