Odds are the dog was sitting in a foster home for months being cared for by someone well intentioned but a novice about the finer points of grooming and care.
The main thing to remember is that this isn't over. Next Trial date is at the end of August and while it is very important that V&M got Ms Piper back to their custody for the trial this isn't over til the appeals, and the checks are written which could take well over another year or more.
Often times those who win are simply those who can out spend the other party.