Few things are more sad to think about than animals in animal shelters. It’s unbelievably sad that many of these creatures are never adopted and never get the forever homes that they deserve.

Some of the animals come from loving homes where owners could no longer take care of them, while others were removed from abusive homes and never knew what it was like to be loved.

Meet Benny, a shy pit bull who was close to being put down when he was brought to Carson Animal Care Center in Gardena, California. Benny had no idea that he was close to being put down, so he greeted visitors in a friendly manner, making it clear that he was desperate to find love. Sadly, as the weeks went on, nobody adopted him and Benny remained in his cage.

Then, one day, everything changed!

Benny seemed to be confused at first when an employee at the shelter slipped a red leash around his neck. Benny seemed apprehensive at first, as he had no idea where he was going.

It was only when he stepped out of the cage that Benny realized what was happening, and his reaction is sure to bring tears to your eyes! You have to see the heartwarming moment that Benny realizes he’s been adopted into the forever home that he has always craved!

The powerful video has quickly gone viral, being viewed over two million times and touching the hearts of people all over the world.

“Wishing this pup a long, happy life with his family!” one social media user wrote, with another adding, “Old Benny looks like a great big ball of high energy fun. Love seeing these dogs find homes.”

Check out the video for yourself below!