A pet groomer was left stunned after a customer brought in an unusual-looking animal for a bath, sparking confusion over whether it was a dog or a wild animal.
The story, shared by user Xiaohongsu (@Big), described how the customer had found the animal late at night and initially believed it was a puppy. However, upon closer inspection, the groomer noticed its strange appearance, resembling a mix between a dog and a bear.
The customer repeatedly asked what breed it was, but the groomer admitted they were also unsure, saying its features did not clearly match any known domestic dog breed. Photos of the animal were later shared online, where it quickly drew mixed reactions.
Netizens debated its identity, with some suggesting it could be a fox, others thinking it was a raccoon, or another type of wild animal. Due to growing concerns that it might be a protected species, the groomer decided not to proceed and alerted the relevant authorities.
The animal was subsequently examined by experts, who confirmed it was a raccoon cub, a protected wild species, before it was handed over to a wildlife rescue centre for care.
Experts explained that raccoon cubs often appear round and fluffy when young, which can make them look similar to both dogs and small bears. However, they remain wild animals and should not be kept as pets.
