Each year, in the United States alone, hundreds of thousands of dogs are dropped off at animal shelters or simply abandoned to fend for themselves. When this Shih Tzu’s previous owner handed custody of her over to the animal shelter, the workers knew she was in dire need of help and attention. Her fur was all tangles and matted and she hadn’t been groomed in who knew how long. After looking her over, it was then that the staff jumped into action and new time was of the essence. There were lives at risk, and calling fellow animal rescuers for assistance was the first priority.