Not to mention, the often and unfortunate fate that could be waiting on them should they not get adopted right into a home. This happens too often at high-kill shelters. So what happens when an unloved sanctuary dog is adopted right into a family and recognizes their life is about to take a turn?

Much has been talked about on the impact of adoption, but seeing it for yourself exceeds explanation. Such is the case with Benny, a wonderful and shy sanctuary dog who was adopted from the high-kill Carson Animal Treatment Center in Gardena, California. Primarily, Benny was on death row when he was lastly adopted. So just how did he respond?

At first, you can see Benny breaking at the seams with anticipation. He’s attempting 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 think of a dialogue like, “Are they mine, am I their own, is this it?”

He’s truly trying to keep it with each other. Just watching his anticipation primarily had me balling. And then it happens, the red leash of ever after exists and Benny bursts with excitement as he meets his new household! An immediate bond is made as he is led by his new family to their vehicle.

To learn about adopting a pet like Benny, or to learn other ways you can help, see your regional animal sanctuary. Great deals of animals require permanently homes!