KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A dog found with severely matted fur and other health issues is on the mend thanks to a Good Samaritan and KC Pet Project.
The dog, now named Simon, was dropped off at KC Pet Project on Monday morning by someone who found him on the side of the street. He weighed almost 20 pounds because of the mass of fur and dirt caked on his body.
The KC Pet Project's veterinary team sedated him and spent two hours shaving him. In the end, they took off more than six pounds of matted fur and dirt.
The shelter posted a video of his transformation on TikTok, where it had been viewed more than 26 million times as of Wednesday afternoon.
@kcpetproject This is an amazing transformation. #kansascity #shelterdog #kcpetproject #animalshelter #matteddog #transformation
Simon will need some dental work and his skin is a bit dry, according to the shelter, but overall, they said they're happy with his health.
"Everybody loves to see these before and after moments that shows a pet at their very worst and then how, thanks to medicine and love and care, they're able to make this remarkable transformation," Tori Fugate, chief communications officer at KC Pet Project, said.
The shelter said Simon is neutered, so it appears he was someone's pet at some point.
However, he's not microchipped and didn't have any tags. They still are looking for his owner, but they have also gotten dozens of requests to adopt him.
Fugate said the help they were able to give Simon is possible because of donations to KC Pet Project's Roadrunner Medical Fund.
Those interested in donating can do so on the KC Pet Project website.
