Sometimes there is just a picture that breaks your heart. This is one of those stories – thankfully, it has a happy ending. We often see dogs that have an opportunity at being rescues, but rarely have we seen one that is as severe as this case. Check out this redemption story.

Unrecognizable as an animal, let alone a dog.

Many animals face a lot of abuse and neglect at the hands of those who are supposed to protect them. Often these animals have a lack of trust in humans because they only know pain from them. Thankfully, there are people and organizations like the NHS (Nebraska Humane Society). A few weeks ago, the NHS posted this picture on their Twitter and it got a lot of attention.

Ellie May and the missing mop.

This little bundle of…stuff is actually a dog named Ellie May. Her rescuers saw her and said:

“Basically, just looked like it was a container of dirty mops, and then we saw it move a little bit,”

Calling this “the worst case of fur matting they had ever seen”, the team decided to take her in and save her life. Upon arrival, the team realized just how severe her case actually was. The neglect she had experienced had caused some serious issues.

More than just matted fur, this pup was in dire need of help.

Most of us would walk by if we saw her laying on the street, not because we didn’t want to help, but because you don’t realize it’s a dog! It really pulls on your heartstrings. More than just tangles and matting, this dog was paralyzed from the weight and the hardened fur. Unable to move, there were feces and grime in her coat and her nails were over 6 inches long.

The team removed over 9 lbs. of hair!

The vets on-site removed 9 lbs. of hair from the little dog! More than just looks, this is a new chance at life for the doggo. We all feel good after a haircut but imagine losing half your body weight after visiting your barber!

Five hours later, the dog was ready to begin her recovery.

Thanks to the incredible team, Ellie May was finished with her makeover and medical treatment. Next step – recovery! After two weeks, Ellie May was almost fully recovered and full of strength and life! She looks radically different than she did when she was brought in! She looks so full of joy, too!

Finding a forever home.

The NHS posted some good news, announcing that they had found little Ellie May a new family! Her owners seem ecstatic and Ellie May couldn’t be cleaner or prettier. This story is a great reminder of second chances and how the outlook of things doesn’t determine the outcome.

Check out some of these uplifting comments from people who saw her transformation!

I am not sure who is happier! So glad to hear she will get to live her life out safe and loved!

– Vicki Londer from Twitter

Oh that’s awesome news! HAPPY TAILS in your furever home 🐾♥🐾🥰

Watch the video below for the full story!

Great news! Ellie Mae, the dog that came in with severe matting, has found her forever home! ❤️ Congratulations Ellie Mae! We know you’re going to love your new home! pic.twitter.com/O4ciHodrGD

— Nebraska Humane Society (@NEHumaneSociety) September 21, 2019

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Source: Shareably, Eyewitness News WVTO, NHS