Whenever you see a dirty, matted pup, it’s clear they’re not living the happy, healthy life they deserve.

This was the case with Chewie, a sweet eight-year-old dog who was heartlessly abandoned after his family moved away from their rental property.

Chewie struggled deeply with the abandonment. Left without a family, love, or care for his health, he was in a dire state. Thankfully, he was spotted by some incredible rescuers who gave him a complete makeover and a new lease on life.

A Much-Needed Makeover

When Chewie arrived at the shelter, he was greeted by Mel, the shelter’s groomer. Her heart broke seeing his condition, and she couldn’t fathom how anyone could abandon such a sweet dog.

Image Source: @rockykanakaofficial

Mel immediately began working on him, hoping he would allow her to give him a bath and a much-needed haircut. Groomers must be very careful with dogs like Chewie, as matted fur can hide wounds, fleas, and other skin issues.

Mel started by slowly cutting away the long mats covering Chewie’s face and then moved on to his body. She was shocked to discover the big tummy hiding underneath all that fur.

“There is something surprising that she notices almost right away. Even though he was abandoned, he is overweight. A severely overweight dog is just as much a sign of neglect,” Rocky Kanaka shared in a TikTok video.

Image Source: @rockykanakaofficial

Another noticeable issue was an ulcerated eye, likely resulting from an injury, an attack from another animal, or physical abuse.

Despite everything, Chewie behaved wonderfully during his spa day. His haircut, bath, and even the drying process went smoothly, much to everyone’s surprise at the shelter. Mel made sure to praise him throughout the entire process.

When he was finally clean and dry, with shiny fur, trimmed nails, and even a shaped mustache, Chewie’s true beauty shined through.

It was no surprise when Frosted Faces Foundation, a nonprofit animal rescue in Ramona, California, decided to take Chewie into their loving care.

He now spends his days at the California rescue, having fun and patiently waiting for a loving family to give him the happy life he has always deserved.

Image Source: @rockykanakaofficial

Final Word

Sadly, abandoned pups like Chewie are all too common. Many people don’t realize that abandoning these precious animals subjects them to physical pain and emotional distress.

Dogs are inherently trusting creatures that form deep bonds with their humans. When they are suddenly abandoned and left to fend for themselves, they become confused, sad, and even depressed.

Image Source: @rockykanakaofficial