Reston Police Rescue ‘Barely Recognizable' Dog, Search for Owner Underway

Reston police rescued a dog that was "barely recognizable as a dog" because it was covered in matted hair, police said.

The dog, which is about seven or eight years old, was found last week in a residential area near Chatham Colony Court and Moorings Drive in Reston, where it may have been abandoned, police said.

Nearly two pounds of matted hair covered the dog's face and body. Only one of the dog's eyes was visible under the hair. The other eye was concealed and infected. Police say veterinarians are trying to determine if the dog can still see out of the infected eye.

The dog is expected to survive, police said.

Before and after photos released by police show a small dog with fur that appears tan, with some white and black.

Police don't believe the dog is a stray because there were no signs of ticks, fleas or other issues that signal an animal has been left outside for an extended period of time.

Police are searching for the owner. The case may be considered animal cruelty.

If you have any tips, you can contact Fairfax Police's Animal Services Division at 703-691-2131.

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