What if you didn’t have a family? What if you waited and waited, hoping and praying each day for a loving family to come your way and whisk you from your four-walled cage and hard cement floor?
That was life for Benny, an adorable pit bull held at the Carson Animal Care center in Gardena, California.
A Good Dog
Benny was certainly a happy little guy. His resolve was admirable. He had no idea that he was in a place where they might put him down. He was something of a greeter – when people came to the shelter in hopes of adopting a pet, he would readily meet them, as if to say, “Choose me!”
Things seemed grim for poor Benny. Days, weeks, and months went by, and Benny remained in his kennel. But he kept his spirits high and his tail wagging, and it paid off tenfold.
An adorable video that has hit the internet details Benny’s wonderful moment of love when his family approaches him for the first time. The pup moves around excitedly, as his dream is coming true. A small red leash is placed in front of Benny, and although he is skeptical at first, he takes to it like a fish to water.
A New Family
The moment becomes real for Benny as his new parents slip the leash around his neck. He is led out of the cage and quite literally jumps for joy as he is escorted away by his new family. His tail wags enthusiastically as his ultimate wish comes true – he is finally going home and finding his own little place in the world.
He makes it out the door and into the fresh air, excitedly jumping all the way. He even jumps at the person operating the camera and at his new owner walking him. His energy level will surely keep this family on their toes for years to come!
Sniffing the air, he smells the sweet scent of freedom and savors the sense of togetherness and joy all were feeling. It was a moment that simply melted the hearts of everyone there.
Adoption
Benny was one of the lucky dogs who ended up finding his forever home. Staff writer Aye Duran at Positive Outlooks Blog reports that old age and illnesses are some of the main reasons that dogs cannot be adopted. It is estimated that 600,000 dogs are euthanized each year. Knowing this statistic, it is important that potential pet owners consider adoption from an animal shelter instead of purchasing from a pet shop or breeder.
By choosing this type of dog, you are also a hero in your own right. You often will be adopting a dog who was a stray, lost, a victim of abuse, or the former pet of an owner who can no longer care for them.
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The video is, of course, a happy moment meant to be enjoyed. But it teaches all of us a valuable lesson about the impact we can have on a pet who is down on their luck. If you are considering adopting a cat or dog, strongly consider the idea of adopting from a shelter. There are 3.3 million dogs alone in shelters, says Duran.
The benefits of having a pet are numerous, like lowered blood pressure, and decreased chances of anxiety and depression. Add to that the benefit of knowing you helped somebody out who may have met their fate too soon, and you have a recipe for love and friendship.
We certainly hope the best for Benny and his family as they grow together. Benny, may your food bowl never get low, and may you never be without your favorite chew toy!
