I am writing this letter about the article, "Waterford-East Lyme Animal Control finds dog in 'deplorable' condition," (Nov. 24). This horrible condition that this dog was in, obviously did not happen overnight.

I know that long-haired dogs like cocker spaniels can get matted, but a warm salt bath and scissors to remove the mats, when they begin to appear, can prevent the matting from getting out of control. But, my God, 7.6 pounds of matted filthy fur was removed from this poor creature. I'm guessing this dog probably only weighed about 35 to 40 pounds.

What kind of person lets his four-legged and tail wagging best friend's condition get so out of control? And it also appears that the dog may have been kept in a crate all the time. I have no idea who you are, and I don't want to know. But picture your own body in a horrible situation like this, and not being able to take care of yourself, by bathing, etc.

Domestic dogs are entirely dependent on us humans to take care of them. Pilgrim deserves a loving home, and hopefully it will be in time for Christmas.