Sang Su’s journey is one of heartbreak, resilience, and ultimately, hope—a powerful story that reminds us of the transformative power of compassion.
Once a small, scruffy dog wandering the streets, Sang Su was a living picture of long-term neglect. His fur was so severely matted and tangled that it was nearly impossible to tell what kind of dog he was. Layers of dirty, urine-soaked hair clung tightly to his frail frame, and the stench from his coat was overwhelming. It was evident that he had endured an extended period of suffering, with no one to care for him and no relief in sight. But even through the grime and discomfort, there was something in Sang Su’s eyes—a flicker of life, a quiet plea for help, and a sliver of trust that someone might finally show him kindness.
When he was found, local shelter workers immediately recognized that Sang Su’s condition was beyond their capabilities. They understood that what he needed was not just a safe space, but highly specialized care and attention—something only a dedicated rescue organization could provide. That’s when they reached out to the Trio Animal Foundation, a Chicago-based nonprofit with a reputation for stepping in when no one else will. Known for taking on some of the most difficult and heartbreaking rescue cases, the Foundation was their best hope to save Sang Su’s life and restore his dignity.
Sue Naiden, the head of the Trio Animal Foundation, has seen countless cases of neglect over her decades of rescue work, but Sang Su’s condition left a lasting impression. She described his coat as being so tightly wrapped around his body that it seemed to restrict his movement entirely. The matting was so extreme, and so saturated with urine, that it emitted a smell that made it almost impossible to be near him without recoiling. Still, Naiden and her team were undeterred. They knew the dog beneath that tangled mess was still worthy of love, still capable of healing, and still deserving of a second chance.
The first step in Sang Su’s recovery was an emergency grooming procedure—more a medical intervention than a typical grooming session. It took four members of the veterinary team two painstaking hours to remove nearly three pounds of matted fur. Every snip revealed more of the tiny dog hidden beneath, and with each layer removed, Sang Su seemed to come back to life. Once freed from the oppressive weight of his fur, he was finally able to stretch his legs, lift his head, and begin to move with a newfound sense of relief. The transformation was dramatic and deeply emotional. For the first time in what was likely months, he could breathe easier, see the world around him, and start experiencing life as a dog should.
As Sang Su settled into his new environment, the healing process began—both physically and emotionally. His body was frail, but with proper nutrition, medical attention, and plenty of rest, he began to gain strength. More importantly, his emotional recovery started to show. His once-dull eyes began to sparkle with curiosity and trust. He slowly began to accept gentle touches, wag his tail, and lean into the affection he had been so long denied. It was clear that despite all he had endured, Sang Su hadn’t given up on the idea that people could be kind. He was cautious, but hopeful.
Interestingly, before his grooming, Naiden believed that Sang Su might be a Shih Tzu or perhaps a poodle or Lhasa Apso mix, based on the little she could see of his features beneath the mats. But once his fur was gone and his body emerged from beneath the layers, she was shocked to see how wrong her guess had been. “In my 20 years of rescue work, I’ve never been so wrong about a dog’s breed beneath such thick mats,” she admitted. His true identity was finally visible, and with it came a better understanding of his specific medical and emotional needs.
Although Sang Su still trembles when touched, he seeks out human contact. He wants to be near people, to feel the comfort of a hand on his back, to know that he is safe now. “His legs tremble, but all he wants is to be close and feel a gentle stroke,” Naiden explained. That longing for affection, even while afraid, is part of what makes his recovery so powerful. It’s a reminder that love is a crucial part of healing—not just food or shelter, but the warmth of connection and trust.
Sang Su’s journey is far from over. He still has ear infections that require ongoing treatment, and he’s undergoing behavioral therapy to help him become more comfortable around other dogs. But his progress so far is a testament to what can happen when someone refuses to give up on an animal others have overlooked. His spirit is stronger now. He has begun to believe in the promise of a better future.
When he is fully recovered, Sang Su will be available for adoption through the Trio Animal Foundation. The team is optimistic that the right family is out there—someone who will continue to nurture the brave little dog and give him the kind of life he’s always deserved.
The Foundation continues to fundraise to support Sang Su’s care, which includes medical expenses, therapy, and everyday needs like food and bedding. But for Naiden and her team, no amount of money compares to the reward of witnessing a transformation like his. “His transformation is nothing short of astounding,” she said, reflecting on all he’s overcome. “You see a dog like Sang Su start to trust again, and it reminds you why we do this work in the first place.”
Sang Su may have started out broken and forgotten, but thanks to the dedication of compassionate rescuers and the love he’s finally received, he’s now on a path filled with hope. His story is a powerful reminder that no matter how dark the past may be, there’s always a chance for a brighter future—especially when love leads the way.
