A sick, orphaned puppy finds his way to health and happiness

Few sights are as heart-wrenching as a neglected animal in need.

Sky Sanctuary Rescue is a nonprofit organization that specializes in the humane capture and rescue of stray or injured animals in and around Phoenix, Arizona. One of their goals is to rescue dogs from county shelters that are at risk of euthanasia.

This small group of animal advocates discovered Flounder, a sick and orphaned puppy, at a local kill shelter. The dog had multiple skin infections that desperately needed attention. So, the Sky Sanctuary rescuers went to work.

Watch the video to see Flounder's incredible transformation.

With help from a specialist, the team set about treating Flounder's ailments, and slowly his condition improved. As his skin gradually healed, his fur began growing back. And the healthier he got, the more his happy-go-lucky personality emerged.

Sky Sanctuary Rescue posted Flounder's transformation journey on TikTok, gaining him supporters all over the world. Finally, with the treatment a success, they were ready to find him his forever home.

When they posted a message on social media, they received hundreds of applications offering Flounder a good and loving home. And after finding him the perfect family, the rescue team said goodbye to the charming little dog with mixed emotions.

So, Flounder's story had a happy ending, but Sky Sanctuary Rescue continues to help other animals in need in the hope of giving them a new lease on life. And, should you want to help, you can find more information about them here.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Puppy healed after being rescued from shelter