An adoption becomes a heartwarming embrace, as a sad pitbull finds a forever home, his overwhelming gratitude expressed through unending hugs.

Shelter dogs don’t get much love from owners and it’s always sad when they have to be put down. Thankfully, the rising movement of adopting found dogs and cats is helping more and more of these shelter animals find loving families and new homes. Russ the Pitbull found home in the loving arms of Kayla Filoon, a 20-year-old student who volunteered as a dog-walker for an animal shelter in Philadelphia. Russ was taken into ACCT Philly where Filoon works and it was love at first sight. According to Filoon, she knew there was a connection between them from the moment she laid eyes on Russ. He apparently felt the same way, as seen in this photo that Filon’s friend posted on Facebook of Russ being affectionate!

Meet Russ. I mean, who can look away from that sweet face?

For Kayla Filoon, it was love at first sight. “He came in as a stray, and he was really beat up”

He was losing fur and was very skinny, and Kayla knew the shelter would soon have to put him down. That’s when she decided to take him home and adopt!

Russ was very thankful and is a very affectionate dog.

He loved to snuggle!

According to Filoon, he is the “perfect dog”

“One night I’m sitting there on the chair, doing my homework, and he’s trying to find ways to cuddle with me”

The photo that Kayla’s friend took and posted on Facebook went viral

Now animal lovers from all over the world are showering Russ with love!

“He’s such a love bug, honestly.”

Filoon has seix other housemates who all adore Russ

It took Russ a bit of time to adjust to his new environment

With constant love, care, and a lot of rest, he bounced back pretty well

But now he is healthy and happy!

Kayla hopes Russ’ story inspires others to adopt as well

So more dogs can have Russ’ happily every after as well!