Dog grooming isn’t just about appearances. It’s important to keep a dog’s fur maintained or else it can grow overlong and matted, causing them serious discomfort and problems.

Many neglected and stray dogs are found in serious need of a makeover, but with a little love and care they end up looking like a whole new pooch.

That was the case recently, when one animal rescue helped transform a mangey stray dog who had been on the street for months.

Ozarks Pet Rescue, a nonprofit based in Missouri, stepped in to help rescue a poodle mix, now named Larry, who had been seen wandering as a stray near a gas station in Norwood. Despite attempts to catch him, he had been on the streets for at least eight months.

During that time, Larry’s fur grew overwhelmingly long and matted, completely covering the poor dog’s eyes.

But last month, Ozark Pet Rescue, in collaboration with animal control and a team of volunteers, was finally able to sedate the dog, catch him and get him to safety.

Larry tested negative for heartworms, but positive for tick disease and whipworms. He was skittish but has been slowly warming up to his rescuers during decompression time.

“He gave our board member a small kisses and belly but is still scared which will take time and patience!” Ozarks Pet Rescue wrote on Facebook.

Most importantly, they gave Larry a much-needed makeover… removing a whopping 3 pounds of matted fur, reducing Larry’s total body weight from 22 to 19 pounds.

The rescue shared before-and-after pics, revealing a remarkable transformation:

People online were amazed by how different Larry looked after his grooming.

“So hard to believe that sweet boy was underneath that shell of matted fur,” one comment reads. “He’s going to have a wonderful life, even if he’s a bit unsure right now. Thank you!”

“Oh my goodness… he is so cute under all of that matted fur,” another wrote. “So thankful you all helped him out… I hope he gets the best home!”

It isn’t clear where Larry came from. He was neutered but did not have a microchip. He is currently on stray hold, and the rescue is looking to see if he has any owners out there.

If no one comes forward, Larry will likely be put up for adoption once he has recuperated, and many people online have expressed interest in giving him a home.

What a difference a haircut makes! We’re so glad Larry is finally safe and looking like a whole new dog ❤️

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