Local & Community
Palm Springs Rescue Dog competing in National Makeover Contest after Dramatic Transformation
A rescue dog from the Palm Springs Animal Shelter is now competing in a national contest after an incredible grooming transformation helped give him a second chance.
Dominic, an elderly dachshund, arrived at the shelter after his owner passed away. Shelter staff say the dog had been severely neglected and was covered in painful matting that made it difficult for him to walk.
“By the time he got to us, he was severely, really matted,” said Jack Hagerman, Associate Executive Director for the Palm Springs Animal Shelter. “Once we were able to get all of that matting off, he had to relearn how to walk again.”
Shelter groomer Yasmina carefully removed the matting during a lengthy grooming process that staff say transformed Dominic both physically and emotionally.
Dominic’s makeover earned him a spot in the 15th annual Wahl® Dirty Dogs Contest, which highlights dramatic grooming transformations from shelters across the country. Contest winners receive prize money to support animal care and grooming services.
Shelter officials say Dominic has since been adopted into a loving home.
Voting remains open through Sunday, May 31, on the Wahl Pets and Wahl Animal TikTok pages. Supporters can vote by commenting “#WahlDirtyDogsContest” on Dominic’s contest video.
By: Caitlyn Kelley
May 28, 2026
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