Shelter dogs suffer long and difficult days. While they will have their needs met, these obligations are basic and will not compare to the love and affection they will receive. Furthermore, they may be facing an unusually bleak future if they are not adopted.

Benny, a sweet shelter dog who was adopted from Carson Animal Care Center in Gardena, California, was on death row when he was adopted. It’s hard to explain the impact of adoption, but to see it for yourself is beyond words.

At first, you can see Benny busting at the seams with anticipation. He’s trying to keep it together as he looks around, sitting as still as he possibly can, while he waits to see if this will be his family. But you can totally tell he’s freaking out on the inside. I could imagine a dialogue like, “Are they mine, am I theirs, is this it?”

He’s really trying to keep it together. Just watching his anticipation basically had me balling. And then it happens, the red leash of ever after is presented and Benny bursts with excitement as he meets his new family! An instant bond is made as he is led by his new family to their car.

To learn about adopting a pet like Benny, or to find out other ways you can help, visit your local animal shelter. Lots of animals need forever homes!