Stray Dog Transforms From ‘Stone’ to Fluffy Husky in Weeks

In Jefferson County, Missouri, a remarkable rescue story is warming hearts. A couple of Good Samaritans were shocked when they encountered what appeared to be a dog, but its wrinkled, nearly hairless body was covered in scars and scabs. The infection he suffered from had turned his skin into something resembling stone, according to Stray Rescue of St. Louis.

A Heartbreaking Sight

Determined to help, the rescuers arranged for the dog to be transported to Stray Rescue of St. Louis. When volunteer Todd Whiteaker arrived and opened his car door, the dog wasted no time, he leaped into the vehicle and curled up next to Whiteaker in the passenger seat.

At the rescue, veterinarians confirmed the dog had scabies, a highly contagious mite infection that causes extreme itching and irritation. The road to recovery required antibiotics and medicated baths, but Lycan, as the rescue team named him, was terrified during his first bath.

“He cried out and howled. It broke our hearts, but we knew it would help him feel better,” said Natalie Thomson, chief communications officer at Stray Rescue of St. Louis.

A New Beginning

Lycan spent two weeks in isolation while undergoing treatment. Despite the discomfort, he craved human touch. “He leaned into us and melted at every touch,” Thomson shared.

As his skin began to heal, Lycan was ready to leave the clinic and enter foster care. His transformation continued under the care of Todd Whiteaker, who had followed his journey closely. Lycan, once bald and in pain, soon began to enjoy sunbathing, car rides, and, most importantly, snuggling up to his foster dad.

A Beautiful Revelation

In just a few weeks, Lycan’s fur grew back thick and fluffy, revealing that he was not a werewolf, but a gorgeous blonde husky. His personality blossomed along with his appearance, showing the world that he was full of love and affection.

Three months after his rescue, Lycan is healthy and happy, attending adoption events in search of his forever family. While he hasn’t found his perfect match yet, his rescuers are determined to ensure he receives the love he deserves.

“He will never know anything else except unconditional love from this day forward,” Stray Rescue of St. Louis wrote. “He’s beautiful inside and out.”

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