A neglected dog who was found dumped on a busy road now looks unrecognisable after being rescued by an animal shelter.
Rochelle Steffen, the founder of Mac’s Mission in Missouri, US, came to rescue Pearl on Saturday after she was found with one eye missing and covered in thick flea-ridden fur.
Pearl, who was walking along a busy road, didn't "even look like a living dog", according Rochelle, who admitted her fur was "so mattered" that it took three people to get rid off.
She told Newsweek: "She was the sweetest and just sat there while we got all the terrible thick matts of her which took quite a while. Thankfully, she didn't have maggots from the matts which many do when they get matted."
Mac’s Mission, which “specialises in special”, focuses on helping homeless dogs who need medical care and provides “life-saving care” to animals in distress.
Pearl was taken to the shelter where she was given a bath to help get rid of any fleas before falling asleep in her new surroundings.
Rochelle added: “We got her cleaned up, shaved down, and a bath to get rid of any grime and fleas. She got settled into one of our spaces and fell asleep pretty quickly."
Mac’s Mission posted Pearl’s story on social media showing the newly-shaved dog being cuddled and then carried to a bed covered in blankets while being offered some food.
In the video, the shelter said Pearl was "settling into her new spot" to eat and rest "after such a long time fighting for her life."
On Instagram, pictures of Pearl were also posted as the shelter said she is "like a new dog after her spar session."
The rescue shelter praised the hundreds of donations they receive from kind-hearted animal lovers.
They wrote: "Your donations allow us to do this and help us save dogs like this very neglected girl. Pear has a new life ahead of her thanks to you all!”
Pearl's touching story led to many social media users praising the brilliant work the animal shelter does.
"I wouldn’t have known that was a dog! Wow! Thank you for everything you do", one user said.
Another commented: “What a difference a day makes. Deepest thanks to everyone who came together to help this pup. She's a cutie.”
Many criticised the previous owner for leaving the dog on a busy road and in such a horrible condition.
One user wrote: "Poor little thing. I bet she feels so much better after her grooming and bath.”
Another added: "I seriously don’t understand people. The neglect I see as a groomer, it’s so hard to not be upset. She came out looking great, she’s precious.”
