A shaggy, unwashed Yorkshire terrier who was found wandering the streets has been transformed after a drastic makeover at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home.

Tia, the four-year-old 'Yorkie', is now almost unrecognisable just a week after being handed in to the charity as a stray.

But despite her recent ordeal, and spell of homelessness, she was all smiles once she arrived.

The little pooch resembled a slightly bedraggled member of 1980s girl band Bananarama with her big blonde and messy hair.

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Bananarama

Tia's coat was so badly matted in fact that her long fur had become tangled and needed to removed, filling an entire bucket with excess hair - fortunately the fur underneath was completely healthy.

The charity's vet nurses then had to bathe, groom and clip her nails to complete the job.

Now Tia looks like a completely different dog, although her hair will grow back and will be kept clean this time around.

Tia is now looking for a loving home where she, and her magnificent coat, can remain in tip top condition.

Sean Welland, intake and assessing team leader at Battersea, said: "Tia’s coat was in such an overgrown and matted state when she arrived at Battersea.

"This coupled with the fact she was found wandering the streets, must have been very stressful for her.

"Under our care she’s begun to show her real personality, and the sprightly little dog that was obscured by so much hair is really starting to shine through.

"Tia is affectionate and good fun, and we're just awaiting a new owner to take her to a new home where she can enjoy lots of TLC."

Last year the charity took in 2,372 stray dogs, many of which were in a poor condition needing medical attention, treatment for skin conditions or signs of neglect.

The charity believes that more and more people are taking on animals without realising the costs involved in caring for them and urges potential owners to properly research their responsibilities before taking on a new dog or cat.

For more information visit www.battersea.org.uk or call the charity's switchboard 020 7622 3626.


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