Now he’s beautiful inside and out.
In Jefferson County, Missouri, a pair of compassionate Good Samaritans were taken aback when a wrinkled creature that looked like a dog approached them. The nearly hairless animal was covered in scars and scabs, and it was evident that he was suffering from a severe infection that left his skin resembling stone, as noted by Stray Rescue of St. Louis. Determined to help, the Good Samaritans arranged for the dog to be transported to Stray Rescue of St. Louis.
When Todd Whiteaker arrived and opened his car door for the pup, the dog eagerly jumped in. At the rescue, tests revealed that the dog was afflicted with scabies, a highly contagious condition caused by mites that leads to relentless itching and discomfort.
“Given the severity of his infection, he required antibiotics and medicated baths,” said Natalie Thomson, chief communications officer for Stray Rescue of St. Louis. “During his first bath, he was so frightened that he cried out and howled, which broke our hearts. But we knew the treatment was necessary for his recovery.” Rescuers named the peculiar-looking dog Lycan, a nod to “lycanthrope,” meaning werewolf. For two weeks, Lycan had to remain isolated while undergoing treatment, but his longing for affection was undeniable.
“He loved to be touched, but we had to wear gloves and protective gear. When we did, he would lean into us, relishing every gentle caress,” Thomson shared. Eventually, Lycan’s skin began to heal, and he was cleared to leave the clinic for foster care. Thomson was confident he would flourish in a home with dedicated love and attention. “This boy has such a sweet nature,” she remarked. “He’s gentle and craves affection. He was the best patient, always trusting us and staying still, as if he understood we were there to help.”
Whiteaker had kept track of Lycan’s progress since dropping him off at the rescue and decided to step up as a foster parent. While Lycan worked on potty training and adjusting to being alone, Whiteaker discovered that the formerly bald dog adored sunbathing and going for car rides. Above all, Lycan loved to snuggle as closely as possible to his foster dad.
As time passed, Lycan’s fur grew back thick and fluffy, revealing his true identity as a blonde husky rather than a werewolf. Three months post-rescue, Lycan transformed into a vibrant, joyful dog. Although he has attended several adoption events, he has yet to find his perfect forever family. For Lycan, the right match is worth the wait, and his rescue team, along with his foster dad, are committed to helping him find it.
“From now on, he will experience nothing but unconditional love, leaving behind the days of sorrow, isolation, and pain,” Stray Rescue of St. Louis wrote. “He’s beautiful inside and out, no matter what.”