When the elderly Magnolia Shih Tzu arrived at an animal shelter in South Carolina, he was devastated. Before he got there, it was not clear what negligence and violence he had undergone, but one thing was clear: his hair was badly matted. Lancaster Zoo staff called Lancaster SPCA to see if the magnolia could be properly cared for.
Lancaster SPCA staff were shocked to see Magnolia in her condition, but provided help and support. Lancaster Humane Society president Diana B. Knight offered to take Magnolia herself, and the dog’s healing journey began.
LANCASTER SPCA
Staff believed that Magnolia was 9-10 years old when she was taken to the hospital. They knew he had been neglected, and for years, perhaps their whole lives, they thought that his negligent owners had simply neglected him.
LANCASTER SPCA
After the staff saw her, they quickly realized Magnolia was trapped inside her own fur. When a dog’s fur hasn’t been groomed and has been allowed to become this matted, it is often extremely painful. What’s more, Magnolia was covered in the smell of her own urine, which she was unable to escape.
It took time and effort, but soon, Magnolia’s hair was cut, and she looked like a brand-new dog!
LANCASTER SPCA
Not only was Magnolia happy to be able to run and play again after getting the shaving, but she also showed an intense desire for affection. She always wanted to be petted and held, as if to make up for her lonely years.
“After living what we believe to be nine to ten years in filth and in a neglected place,” Knight told The Dodo, “she is enjoying car rides, toys, walks and is being spoiled by all who visit her. She is one of the worst we have taken in.”
LANCASTER SPCA
Magnolia is not a young puppy – at 9 or 10 years old, he is considered an adult dog. However, the staff believes that he has enough life left to live with an eternal family, which he emphasized when he encouraged people to adopt Magnolia.
Magnolia spent a lot of time coping with her ordeal and also had fun with other Shih Tzu who were loved by the family she raised. Knight called him a “regular Shih Tzu” who just wanted love and care.