When Bentley the Shih Tzu arrived at the West Yorkshire Dog Rescue, he was hidden under piles of filthy, matted fur.

YouTube/KathyTrout

The little guy reeked of gasoline and wouldn’t let any humans touch him.

YouTube/KathyTrout

He needed to be groomed, but everyone knew it would take a while to undo all the damage his former life had left.

YouTube/KathyTrout

Poor Bentley had to lie on the table as the layers of filth and tangles were slowly removed.

YouTube/KathyTrout

Gradually, the grooming revealed a sweet-looking puppy hidden under all the grime.

YouTube/KathyTrout

After the haircut, it was time for Bentley to have what very well might have been his first bath.

YouTube/KathyTrout

According to his rescuers, “It took four shampoos to get rid of the horrible smell.”

YouTube/KathyTrout

But once he was clean and dry, Bentley started enjoying life at his foster home as a brand new, healthy dog.

Facebook/WestYorkShireDogRescue

Earlier this month, the rescue posted the happy news that Bentley found his forever family!

YouTube/KathyTrout

While the trauma of his past won’t soon disappear, Bentley is learning that he is safe and loved.

YouTube/KathyTrout

Here’s the video of Bentley meeting his new forever family for the first time.

Congratulations, Bentley! You deserve every minute of it!