Homeless Dog Gets A Makeover And Learns To Love

There are countless numbers of dogs that have been rescued from shelters that take some time getting to know their new family. Everyone knows that deep down, they’ll be able to show affection again. But what about the dogs that have never been loved before? That is the case for this dog, Benji. He was born  homeless and had been that way his entire life and because of that, only knew  how to respond to human interaction by being afraid. He had no idea how to respond to his rescuer’s touch.

It was difficult to get Benji to trust them, so they eventually had to rescue him with a snare trap. Watching the video of the capture is sad enough, but seeing the condition he was in is even worse.

“This is one of the worst mattings I’ve ever seen in my life,” the rescuer says as he gives the dog what might be his first comforting touch ever. Not only was the dog’s fur terribly matted, it was also infested with pests. When the rescuers shave away Benji’s hair, the amount of fleas and other bugs that crawl out of it is troubling.

After Benji received a total makeover by being completely shaved, the tough part began: learning how to love. Lisa Chiarelli, one of Hope for Paws’ volunteers, took him home with her to meet Lola and Frankie, two other rescued dogs who frequently intervene in the organization’s attempts to familiarize new rescues to canine company. It took Benji over 10 days to open up, as he was completely “shut down,” as the video says, too afraid to move or return the affection he was receiving.

Watch the video below to witness his beautiful transformation. No dog should have to go through this — share this video to spread that message.