Downriver dog found with overgrown, matted fur gets adopted

Pixie, a 5.5 pound toy poodle, is on the mend after suffering from acute fur matting, painful to the touch.

The dog came to the Wyandotte Animal Shelter on March 19, facing complications from overgrown, matted fur. Her owner, a Vietnam War veteran, was unable to care for the dog due to health issues and chose to surrender the dog to the shelter.

Volunteers arranged for a grooming the same day and had the dog treated by a veterinarian within three days, in partnership with the Downriver Grooming Co. and Pound Pals Downriver. The medical exams revealed a UTI, which staff treated within a few days with antibiotics.

How to prevent fur matting

• Brush your dog's hair down to the skin often.
• Use dog-friendly shampoo to avoid mats and tangles.
• Dry your dog's hair after bathing.
• Make regular appointments at your local groomer.