The time dogs spend in shelters is often forgotten, especially the long, sad days. The care they get there is basic and doesn’t match the love of a home. Plus, there’s a big risk they might not make it if no one adopts them. This happens a lot at places where many dogs don’t get adopted. So, what happens to a dog from the shelter that gets a new family but then finds out things are about to get really bad?

Much has been discussed on the impact of adoption, but seeing it for yourself goes beyond explanation. Such is the case with Benny, a sweet and shy shelter dog who was adopted from the high-kill Carson Animal Care Center in Gardena, California. Basically, Benny was on death row when he was finally adopted. So how did he react?

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!

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