Wave Your Paws in the Air! Like You Just Don’t Care! - Adorable Rescue Dogs Going Home With Their New Families

Love You Too

Can’t you feel the love seeping out of this image? It’s obvious that this boy would go to the ends of the earth for his best friend.

Getting a shelter pet can be such a rewarding experience, both for the human and the dog (or cat!) If you’re considering a new animal, make sure to check your local shelters before heading to a pet store! There are always plenty of amazing cats and dogs waiting for someone like you to come along and change their life – just as much as they will change yours!

A Kodak Smile

This overload of cuteness is named Kodak. That seems like a fitting name for such a photogenic pup.

Kodak was pulled from an animal-hoarding situation in a dirty and overcrowded home. Thanks to his new mom, he’s getting a second chance at a happy life with the Love and attention he deserves.

Happy Days

This beloved little creature is so thankful to his new dad for picking him out from the shelter that he can’t stop smiling! And that was before he even got to see his new house!

Is that not the sweetest thing you’ve ever seen? What a heartwarming moment caught on camera!

Boop

This puppy seems to be mirroring what his owner usually does to him – petting!

Well, it’s either that or he’s being knighted in the dog world.

A Woman and Her Companion

This elderly woman was having a tough time in her empty nest. She decided she wanted to bring some new life into her house, and that’s where this little guy came into play!

She had to make sure that this was the right dog for her first since a puppy would have likely been a bit too playful. But she couldn’t be happier with her decision, and she loves her new family member.

All the Hugs

Unfortunately, too many people expect to go into a shelter and find a newborn puppy. They want a pet that they feel isn’t “damaged” already, and so many senior dogs and dogs with disabilities, etc., never get the chance at the love that they deserve.

But there are those caring few that come along with open minds and open hearts. The ones that see the good and the hope in the eyes of those older dogs. Like this guy who took a chance on this senior doggo and couldn’t be happier with his decision. And hey, most senior dogs are already potty trained!

First Trip to the Park

When you’re in the shelter, you don’t really get too much exercise. Shelter doggies depend on volunteers to come and walk them around and take them out on adventures. So, when this guy went to the park with his family for the first time, he wore himself out playing with his new brother!

They spent a few hours running around, and this is the aftermath of their day at the park. Mom couldn’t help but snap this shot of her two adorable little boys napping together on the ride home.

Just Two Older Guys Hanging Out

This is another case of a senior who wanted a dog that would match his mellowed-out mood. He found exactly what he was looking for when he met Gus, who stole his heart right away. The two hit it off the second the shelter staff brought Gus out of his kennel to meet his new friend, and then he was off to his new forever home not long after.

This picture goes to show just how happy they are together, and that was when the pair had just met. Now, their bond is even stronger.

Asleep on Dad’s Lap

Puppies have to get their fair share of sleep, especially when they have an exciting long day like this one. He couldn’t even make it over to his seat he fell asleep right on dads lap instead.

Hopefully, dad can drive safely with his passenger. What a truly precious moment to catch on film. Thanks for sharing!

That Face

This photo displays the perfect example of “puppy eyes.” It may seem like they flash them at us when they want something, but the truth is, they can’t help it – which makes it that much more adorable!

Who cares what this little guy wants? We’re going to give it to him no matter what. Who could say no to that face? Okay, who would even want to say no to it?

Smiling Pitt

Here’s another awesome picture of a Pitbull who’s super happy to be with his loving family. Dogs are just so sweet and simple. They don’t require complex things like humans. They just want to be loved, petted, and fed.

Judging by the look on his owner’s face, he’s more than happy to provide that love. There’s no one more loyal and deserving of it than a dog.

The Wagging Tail

How adorable is this little fluffball? You can tell how happy she is with her new human because of how fast her tail moves! Not to mention the kisses she’s laying on her nose.

After this photo was posted on Reddit, one user commented, “the camera may have been quick enough to catch this protruding puppy’s tongue, but it still couldn’t capture his fast-flicking tail!”

A Second Chance

More often than not, senior dogs get passed up for the younger and more vibrant dogs that are waiting to be rescued. Unfortunately, that results in many dogs spending their aging years in a stressful environment because no one’s willing to give them a chance.

But this woman could see the spark in Bandit’s eyes, and she was ready to give him the best years of his life – even if there aren’t a great number of them left. It’s kind-hearted individuals like that who are responsible for changing the lives of someone in need!

Sweet Thing

All it takes is a glance for a dog to show you what they’re feeling. And the way this dog is looking at her owner says it all.

The eyes make it clear that she is super happy and doesn’t want to leave her owner’s side or lap. Well, she may have had to get down when they got out of the car, but something tells me she got her seat back when they got home.

Policeman’s Joy

While you may not always see the softer side of law enforcement officers, that doesn’t mean it isn’t (always) there! Just take a look at this officer who rescued this little guy and quickly got attached. Do you blame him?

He doesn’t always come to work with his new dad, but that was not long after his initial rescue, and he wanted to show him off to all of his work buddies. Now, he spends most of his days relaxing at home and/or at the park with his mom and siblings.

The Cutest

Okay, there may be a lot of cuteness on this list, but is it me, or do they just keep getting cuter and cuter? This face, for instance, is something that would stop you dead in your tracks on the street. Who wouldn’t just have to pet this angelic little thing?

Puppies this adorable don’t typically have any problems getting adopted from shelters. Unfortunately, many people then decide later in an animal’s life that they don’t want to care for them any longer. Pets aren’t a temporary plaything or gift, they’re family!

Happy to See You

This heartwarming photo needs no words. This proud owner is seen leaning on the wall with his dog snuggled up on his lap.

We assume this beautiful white companion had a rough time before finding a better haven with his new owner. Again we see how pure unconditional love can change the world for both a dog and its human.

Best Little Bro

This young lady adopted her rescue dog back in 2015. She shared this photo on Reddit on the BeforeNAfterAdoption page, showing what a magnificent change her dog went through.

At first, the dog was too scared to even hold his head up during the car ride to his new home. Now he has full confidence in his human and he practically rules the road.

One Week Later

And neither the doggo nor his new owner can deny their new bond. They’re both obviously pumped to have found each other. Just look what a difference only one week can do!

Apparently, his owner is just as thrilled. How adorable is this picture? The expression and looks on his face perfectly display all the warm feelings going on in that car!

Photoshoot

This dog looks like someone just told it to look over its shoulder at them – or maybe they did! Whether or not he meant to pose that way, a lot of people are glad he did. How else would we witness this uber-cuteness?

Then again, maybe someone opened a bag of treats, and that’s why he looks so excited. He does, after all, look almost like he’s licking his chops. Or maybe it’s both. In any case, it’s darling!

Double the Cuteness, Double the Fun

No, this isn’t a new commercial for Doublemint gum. But, it’s so cute that it could absolutely sell some products, don’t you think? After all, there’s an adorable puppy and a super sweet little girl. Could this picture be any cuter?

This girl went with her mom to the shelter to pick out her new forever family member and just so happened to lock eyes with this lovable pup, and it was all over from there. Once she had him in her arms, mom knew there was no turning back! But after it was her turn to hold him, she didn’t want to, either!

A Happy Ending

This poor dog named Rex had a horrible first owner who treated him terribly. They made Rex wear a shock collar and overused it and abused it to the point they caused him neck trauma.

But Rex was rescued by much kinder humans and now lives with his new family, hence the big smile. How can anyone treat such gentle creatures so cruelly? Thanks to his new dad, he’s a happy boy these days.

At Ten Years Old

This adorable little dog met her new owner when she was ten years old. Like many, he published a photo of her on AdoptedDogsAreBes on Reddit, showing off his new best friend.

This photo was taken just one year after she was adopted. We don't know what she looked like before, but now she seems to be a healthy and, most of all, happy eleven-year-old dog.

Car Seat

Unlike children, there are really no rules about how a dog can ride in the car. So, this puppy’s owner decided to put him in a basket for their road trip. There’s nothing actually keeping him in there, but it’s worth a shot! After all, at least it’s keeping him somewhat contained.

But this won’t be a long trip. They are just going home for the first time since his new mom adopted him from the shelter. It’s not like she could have a puppy car seat handy or anything. Although they probably do sell them on Amazon!

Only One Day Later

You wouldn't believe that this photo was taken just one day after this beauty was adopted. It looks as if she's been with her owner since the day she was born.

This is exactly what keeps us fascinated regarding the bond between dogs and their human owners. Unlike us, sometimes a dog just knows it is in the right place, with the right person, and at the right time.

Massive Boy

Some breeds of dogs seem more like horses than, well, dogs. Just look at this Cane Corso, who stands just about as tall as his human when he’s up on his hind legs. Aren’t big, sweet dogs just the cutest thing in the world?

Although a big dog may intimidate a lot of people, at least some can see their giant hearts and are willing to take a chance on them. And from the looks of things, this guy isn’t regretting it one bit.

All Smiles

This little guy met his new human mom at an adoption event and was chosen out of many who were waiting to be taken into their new home. Of course, this dude of a dog knew he would be picked with that adorable little face he has.

This was just the first of many pictures they’d taken together since the day they met. But you can tell that they hit it off right away, and if there is one thing he loves, it's being in the car.

Big Boys Need Love Too

Dogs that need rescuing come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and breeds. Take this big boy, for example. Standing on his hind legs, he’s probably just as tall, if not taller, than his new dad.

But, no matter his “bear-like” stature (his dad’s own words,) he fell in love with him right away. It’s great that people have different tastes when it comes to dogs so that they all have a fair shot at being adopted and finding a forever home!

Smooches for Pooches

This woman picked up her new rescue dog, Stitch, at a shelter local to her area. It seems like they’re both ecstatic about their new living situation!

That was just the first of many kisses to come. How great is it that they’ve found each other?

Brown Eyes

Does this puppy not just have the most adorable brown eyes in the world? The fact she’s looking longingly at her owner just makes it that much cuter.

This good girl’s name is Hazel, and she’s a Husky mix from California. Hopefully, there are more pictures of her circulating the internet!

Sleepy Dog

Meet Roxy. According to her owner, Sarah, she’s usually very full of energy. But it seems as though she wore herself out playing with friends this day.

In fact, according to Sarah, Roxy is great at making new friends – even for her owners! “We’ve met most of our friends through her,” said Roxy’s mom.

The Best Kind of Antidepressant

Owning a dog is like having a therapist, friend, and family member all rolled into one – one that never doubts you or makes you feel lesser. Dogs are the most loyal, loving creatures on the face of the planet, and at some points, it feels like we don’t deserve them. But since we have them, it’s our job to take care of them and protect them from all of the pain and suffering the world has to offer.

Rescuing a dog is beneficial for both you and your new furry friend. You get an addition to the family that’s going to love you no matter what, and that’s all they want from you, too. It looks like this puppy and his new owner found that in each other. Yay!

Husky Hugs

There’s nothing better than giving a big, fluffy dog a giant hug when you’re still shorter than he is. Okay, maybe there’s nothing better than giving a big, fluffy dog a hug, period. And this little girl doesn’t look like she plans on letting go anytime soon.

That dog looks like he feels like the girl’s loyal protector. Not only that but also just a fluffy friend. The content expression on his face and calm demeanor say it all. What a good boy!

The Sun’s Shining Once Again

This poor puppy was left out in the cold to starve by someone who didn’t deserve to be near her. Then, she was rescued and taken in by her new, loving family, who treat her like a queen!

Just look at her in her little Burberry-esque collar with a giant grin on her face! If that doesn’t say “content,” I don’t know what does!

Selfie Time

Let’s face it – taking selfies is not for everyone, and we say that as those who can’t take a selfie to save their lives. But some people have zero issues, and apparently, so do some dogs because this shot is amazing.

It’s like the pup understood what was going on and was ready to take his first family photo. And, even if it was an accident, it’s a very happy one!

Who Took the Cookies from the Cookie Jar?

Not me; it couldn’t be! But it looks like these two came down to the kitchen for a pre-bedtime snack. The puppy is even licking his lips as evidence!

This little girl just got this fluffy boy a few days before, and they’ve been getting along great. In fact, they’ve been getting along a little too well, as they’ve turned into mini partners in crime. But hey, they’re both so cute they deserve a few cookies.

Sweet Pitt

I love seeing pictures that truly represent what pit bulls are like when they’re cared for like any other dog. Just look how sweet they can be when they’re brought up in a loving family!

This little girl was ecstatic to find her new furry friend at the pound. She knew from the second she saw him that he was the one. And the family hasn’t regretted a single second of his company!

Secret Keeper

Perhaps one of the many reasons why dogs are “man’s best friend” is their ability to keep and hold one’s secrets throughout their lifetimes. Dogs are the most loyal creatures on earth, and this girl knows that she can tell her buddy anything!

Dogs will love their humans unconditionally. They don’t care what secrets you tell them as long as you love them and treat them right. That’s why “all dogs go to heaven!”

Dog Marley

This picture features one lucky dog. As soon as its owners laid eyes on this pile of mess, she knew she had to take him home – and that’s exactly what she did.

The "after" picture of the dog is not all that perfect, however, this poor thing has been through hell and back. Not only was he abandoned, but he has been suffering from cancer on top of everything. Thankfully, he now gets all the love he needs.

Bullied Breed

Pit bulls and other types of bull terriers are often discriminated against due to the image that they have of being aggressive. But the truth is any dog can be aggressive if they are mishandled or treated improperly. And pit bulls can be just as sweet and loving as any other dog breed.

The fact that many apartment complexes won’t allow this breed makes it difficult for them to get adopted, as does the stigma. But luckily, there are people like this who come along and take a chance on them. Now, this Bully is living it up with his new family!

A Rescue Dog’s Dream

This little guy was rescued from a puppy mill operation. He was bound to live an unhappy, trapped life in a small cage. And then this happened.

He almost couldn’t believe it, and he certainly wasn’t about to let go when mom picked him up and held on tight. Now, Dusty is living his best life in a happy home!

Rock-a-bye Baby

This is the first time this dog’s been rocked to sleep by his new mom, and he is absolutely loving it. She’d better be careful before he starts to expect it every night!

The timing on this picture was great, considering they snapped the photo while the pup’s eyes were still open – and looking at the lens! The only thing that would make it better is if there was one from just a few minutes later right next to it after he’d fallen asleep.

Meet Freddie

Freddie was adopted in 2018, and by the look on his face, he is truly a very happy dog. After several years in the shelter, being passed from one family to the other, he found his little heaven.

We are sure that just as much as the little dude is overjoyed with not too many complaints about life, there is one family that gets so much love back from him, and they are equally happy.

Who Are You Calling Hakka?

Hakka was a little too much for his previous owner. Apparently, this energetic dog is a big load to handle. In 2018 he was adopted by his new human companion, and things have been going pretty well.

This photo was taken just two hours after he was taken into his new home, and we can see that there is not even one bit of fear or insecurity in his eye. He knew he had arrived home.

Duck Face Dog

This dog looks like he’s excited to be heading on a road trip with his new momma. He also looks somewhat surprised to be getting his picture taken, though. It almost looks like he opened his phone to be confronted by the front-facing camera.

Even if he was a little shocked, he still looks adorable. And his mom looks like she loves him to pieces. Who wouldn’t?

Wave Your Paws in the Air! Like You Just Don’t Care!

This dog is so excited to be leaving the shelter he just can’t contain himself. He’s so ready to be home that he’s doing his happy dance.

Or, perhaps dad is behind the lens holding a squeaky toy. In any case, that’s one happy doggo! It also seems like he’s trying to say, “come on, guys, let’s get out of here!”

Sweet Girl

This poor, deaf pup was left to fend for herself out in the wild by a cold-hearted human who didn’t want to care for her. Luckily, she was found by a little boy when he was playing outside one day.

The dog, who the family named Terabyte, met her fate that day when she strolled into that field, and so did the boy. Now, they’re living as one happy family, and she couldn’t be more loved. What a happy ending!

Brothers

These two brothers may have just come into each other’s lives recently, but that doesn’t make their bond any less strong! You can feel the love and trust between these two just by looking at this picture.

The dog feels comfortable enough around the boy that he’s fallen asleep in his lap. And just look at how adoringly the boy looks at his fluffy little friend! It’s all just way too cute!

Got Your Nose

Puppies can’t help themselves when it comes to chewing on things, not even if they’re attached to their human's face.

Luckily, his teeth haven’t fully formed yet, so it probably doesn’t hurt as much as it would if he were about a year older.

All the Fluff

This beautiful Goldendoodle was first named Scout. When he turned seven months he was adopted by a new owner who changed his name to Lego. Apparently, he really stunk. Looks like the previous owner wasn't doing a very good job.

He was washed, groomed, fed, and stroked, and voila! A beautiful new dog was born. He just makes you want to pet him.

Penny

Penny, the puppy, looks adorable as she rides away from an NYC adoption center in her new dad’s arms. “We knew we had found the perfect little girl,” he said as he cradled her and smiled.

From the loving look on Penny’s dad’s face, she won’t ever have to worry about a thing again. Hopefully, the cat and other animals at the center were just as lucky!

Happy Boy

Could this dog look any happier to be at his new home? This shot was taken on the pup’s first morning waking up at his new mom and dad’s place, and he is absolutely ecstatic!

He’s going to have many more good mornings to come, and hopefully, they’re right there with a camera to catch more puppy grins because this one is just paw-some. Who doesn’t love seeing happy rescue stories?

Puppy Love

This boy looks like he couldn’t be any happier to have his new furry friend in his life. And, judging by how content the puppy looks being held, he seems pretty happy too. You can tell that these two hit it off immediately.

Young children and animals don’t always get along, especially when the children try and play rough with them. Luckily, this boy is gentle as could be with his furry friend. What a sweet duo!

Therapy Dog

Doesn’t it seem like, in a lot of cases, the perfect dog winds up with the person who they were made to find? That certainly seems to be what’s going on here. This therapy dog and his new human have a super-strong bond.

Just look at that embrace! The dog looks like he’s more than content to be in the arms of his owner. And she’s obviously just in heaven holding her new best friend.

The Happy Rottweiler

Rottweilers may be big boys, but they can also be some of the cutest balls of fluff that you’ve ever seen – not to mention how smart and loyal they are. When Doug met Gonzo, he knew it was meant to be. Just look how happy they are together!

Gonzo and his dad are not only posing, but they’re also posing with a hug. What could possibly show the affection that these two have for each other more than this? The Rottie even has a huge smile on his face!

Cuddles and Kisses

What’s the point of having a sweet, tiny boy (or girl) if you can’t pick them up and cuddle them? Granted, some dogs, like most cats, hate being picked up. But, if you do it from when they’re young and/or they just happen to like the attention, they should love it as much as you do!

Queenie certainly appreciates the loving, that’s for sure! Just look at that super relaxed expression on her little face!

Puppy Time

This little Chocolate Lab is on his way home for the first time too! He just met his new family at an adoption event, and they fell in love with his face the second they laid eyes on him! Who wouldn’t?

Something tells me that he is going to live an amazing life in his new house. How could anyone not spoil him?

Going Home in Style

This little boy was lucky enough to get picked up by his new mom and dad during an adoption event. Not only do his new human parents take great care of him – they make sure everyone around has a smile on their face and throw in a good joke!

The blue leash matches the blue eyes, and he is absolutely adorable. It’s wonderful that everyone is so happy to have found each other! Now they all have a new best friend.

Making Funny Faces

This dog was having a hard time getting picked up because of her unique look, but then this woman came along and saw her and fell in love with those eyes. And now, I’m almost certain that dog is an internet celebrity in the form of memes all over the world. All of the people who passed up on her probably feel pretty bad about it! (As they should.)

This one certainly couldn’t hide her excitement.

A New Best Friend

This woman was having a rough time dealing with the loss of her husband of several decades. Her son decided to get her a puppy to keep her company, and she loved it even more than he could have hoped!

This good little boy has done a great job being a loving and loyal companion. Plus, it’s hard not to smile when you’re around a wiggly and cute dog like that! Well done, son, mission accomplished!

This Is Not the End

At first, you might think that this beauty only survived for six years and sadly passed on. The sign on his neck might have you think that he made everyone happy for six years and those six years are over.

Well, apparently, this dog is still alive and kicking, and the photo was taken on his six-year anniversary with his owners. To many more!

Love You More Than Pizza

When there’s food at eye level with your puppy, and he’d rather look at you, you know how much he must love you! That’s what’s going on here since this little boy can’t take his eyes off of his papa.

Of course, there’s always the chance that he’s pulling “puppy eyes” because he knows it will get him a bite. Or maybe he’s just not a pizza fan. Yeah, right – like there are any dogs in existence who don’t love pizza crust!

Show Some Teeth

Some dogs just make hilarious faces. A quick stroll through the internet is all you need as proof. This dog is named Datsun, and he was chosen because of his beautiful face and his captivating smile.

There’s nothing cuter than a dog that can make human-like expressions. And hey, just think of all of the selfies they can take together. Say cheese!

A Real Before and After

These side-by-side photos show one of the most significant before and after photos of a rescue dog. It took two weeks to get this sweet little pooch into shape and have her look brand spanking new.

According to what the veterinarian said, if this little dog wasn't adopted when she was, it is most likely that she wouldn't have survived the night.

Senior Loving

This old man wanted a new fur buddy to keep him company, but he wasn’t about to go through potty training, and he wanted someone who was just as mellow as he was. When he saw this beautiful dog, he knew in a heartbeat it was the one for him.

Once they got home, it was love at first cuddle. Now, they’re the best of friends, and they love to hang out around the house together and go for walks around the neighborhood. Senior dogs can be some of the most well-behaved rescues!

After Fluff

These photos are a perfect example of what can happen when a dog is loved and cared for. The picture on the left was from later on when the dog was adopted, while the picture on the right shows a few days afterward since he’s been living with his new family.

The poor pup had come from a situation where she was neglected, hence the long raggedy fur. But her new dad takes excellent care of her. All it took was one trip to the groomer to make Bella feel like a brand-new dog!

Sweater Weather

This little guy’s name is Oliver, and he was really nervous when his owner, Jenna, first adopted him. So much so, in fact, that he was shaking and crying on the ride home. Jenna said that it was probably because the only other time he’d been in a car was to get taken to the shelter. Poor thing.

But look how happy he is now! He even loves going for rides in the car these days. That, Jenna says, is because he “knows he’s going to play” each time it happens! I don’t know how anyone could give him up, but I’m glad Jenna has him now.

I’ve Only Got Eyes for You

How precious is this moment between this little furball and his new mom? The way they’re looking at each other says everything about all of the feelings going on in this car.

It doesn’t always happen that there are puppies in a shelter, but this doggo and his fur siblings were tossed to the side of the road. As soon as she saw him, she knew it was meant to be. Don’t worry, his brothers and sisters got adopted, too.

Saying Cheese

This little four-legged friend was waiting patiently in the kennel for someone to take him home. Once that special someone got there and saw his gloomy face just waiting to be brightened, there was no denying the instant connection.

This good doggo now answers to the name Spokey and is more than willing to smile for the camera held by his beloved human.

Don't Stop Bee-living

This little sweetheart is called Bumble Bee (or simply Bumble for short). Waiting for a new human to adopt her made her a little sad, but that was long ago.

Now that she's got her very own human and her very own home, she can't stop buzzing for joy.

Stretches and Belly Scratches

When Jackson was in the pound, he didn't have much room to roam. He didn't even have much room to stretch. All he had was a little piece of floor and a water bowl.

In his new home, however, Jackson has anything he can hope for, including his very own bed and an unlimited supply of belly scratches.

Perfect Napping Buddy

This little sweety was taken home by a human who loves napping and thought of taking his napping game to the next level with a new friend.

Her new name is actually Pillow, and she never says no to a good nap with or without her human.

From Desert to Oasis

Sandy was found in a cage in the desert, where she was put by a mean person who didn't treat her well. Luckily, things are now different for her.

Sandy couldn't be happier about her new home, where she has people who love her, take care of her, and keep her hydrated.

The Best Present

When Amelia was in the Kennel, she had very little going for her. She couldn't wait to find her forever home. Thankfully, her new owner only had to pat her on the noggin once to know they were going home together.

Now Amelia enjoys a loving home with a warm family and Christmas presents every year.

Lovely Laurel

This little pup's name is Laurel. She loves playing fetch and cuddling with her humans. After a long time of Laurel wanting to find a family and of the family wanting a dog, the two found each other.

Now Laurel and her new family can't stop smiling!

Bandit

This pup's name is Bandit. And contrary to his name, he is a loving little critter. Well, The 'little' part is temporary, though.

These kinds of shepherd dogs grow to be very big and are often used as guard dogs, but his new family doesn't seem to mind.

I Choose You!

This dashing doggo and his pearly whites used to be all alone in the world. He just had to take a look at each person looking for a new friend to adopt and show just how much of a good boy he is.

When that special someone came along, he named his doggo Little Guy. And no matter how big or old he's going to be, he will always be Little Guy to us.

Peacefully Napping

Living the kennel life means that you always have to be alert. You keep your guard up and try to always be on the lookout for potential adopters. That makes for very tired dogs, and Val here is no different.

Now with a new family, new home, and a new soft bed, Val can finally get some well-deserved sleep.

Love at First Scratch

This is Chex, and he wasn't going to just let anyone adopt him. His way of vetting potential humans was to audition them for their scratching abilities. Once Chex felt that perfect scratch, he knew he was in good hands.

You could also say Chex's new human is Chex's mate.

Hunting? Not for You

This gorgeous creature would have probably turned into a hunting or fighting dog. Luckily enough, he was adopted at a young age, and a life of agony was prevented from him.

He can spend all of his life chasing cats, swimming in the lake, chewing other people's socks, and spreading his unconditional love all around. The only thing he now fights for is the best sun patch to nap in. And even that is done as a hobby.

Pitbull Pal

The pitbull in the picture answers to the name Nora Budulis. When she was in the pound, she rarely smiled, but with her current family, she smiles all the time.

Her humans make sure she's happy, healthy, and loved. Oh, and they also keep her stylish!

It's All in the Ears

A dog's ears can tell you a lot about the dog's mood. Take Bodza in these pictures, for example. On the left, you see a sad-yet hopeful dog with its ears down.

The picture on the right is a completely different story. With daily walks to the dog park and a human to love, Bodza's ears are up, indicating happiness.

Happy and Healthy

If the picture on the left is anything to go by, this dog was probably recovered from an irresponsible breeder. When she was rescued, she was weak and sick. She needed a lot of love as well as proper medical care. Her current human stepped up to the challenge, and the two couldn't be happier about it.

Weeks after she was brought to her new home, she is perfectly healthy, and well looked after.

Beatles Fan

This little lady is called Penny Lane. We guess it's because this was the song playing on the radio when she was first brought to her new home.

The new owner must have heard, "Penny Lane is in my ears and in my eyes..." and thought this would be a cool name. And they were right.

A True Olympian

Sadly, this is for real. This is like a true prince-turned-pauper tale, taking it to the extreme. This dog was obviously neglected for a very long time before he found some peace with his new owner.

It's amazing how little one dog needs to become such a loving creature that can give back so much. If it wasn't for this photo, we wouldn't have believed this was the same dog.

Pampered Little Lady

When Cezanne was taken in by her human, she was in bad shape, as seen in the picture. The first thing the human did was to take the little thing for a good haircut.

Cezanne is now being treated like the princess she is, given the treats, love, and pampering time she deserves. Judging by the picture on the right, she seems happy about it.

Howdy Partner!

The day Ruth was adopted, the people that worked at the shelter posted her photo on Facebook so everyone could see what she looked like. The poor thing was frightened, insecure, and longing for a warm and embracing home.

Now, this adorable doggo welcomes anyone she meets, and we're sure she gets all the noggin pats he could possibly desire.

Belly Love

This poor dog wasn't treated well and ended up in a shelter. From a lonely lady to a loving companion, the path was clear. Her new owner knows how to show her love, and she deserves it.

Now she enjoys all the rest she needs, especially laying on her back and getting her belly tickled. She knows what's good in life!

Are We There Yet?

This is Mila, and she is an adorable mixture of too many breeds. But this didn't bother Annie Clinkenbeard when she chose her and took her home.

Little Mila was probably still unsure where she was heading, and by the look on her face, she still hasn't acknowledged that she was probably one of the lucky ones in the kennels that day.

Selfie Trained

This photo was taken one year after the beautiful dog was adopted. Deep inside, Samantha, who took in this dog, knew this was her destiny and posted it on her Instagram account.

She wrote, "A year ago today, we brought home this little pupper ❤️ I've always known I was meant to be a dog mom, and I'm so happy to be his human." Samantha, we are happy too!

Charlie and Hana

Small dogs are the best. They don't take up too much room, it's never an issue traveling with them, and if they feel tense or uneasy, our laps are there to the rescue.

Petite Hana was rescued by Charlie when she was just a little pup. Although in the photo she still looks a bit terrified, we can assure you she's not. She is comfortable getting warm in Charlie's lap.

Baby Ruth

This is one of our favorite stories that prove that the love a dog can bring into one's house can be many times a heart healer after a great loss.

Little Baby Ruth was adopted not long after these two's brother passes away. Apparently, the mother of the two tried to adopt with no success for a while, and one day after the brother died, the phone rang, with the dog rescue center on the other side.

Loving Parker

This Instagram account is called 'the lifestyle hunter,' and after checking Parker out, he fits in perfectly. Just look at that adorable dog coat.

When parker was adopted, he was a nervous dog, and every little bark from other dogs scared him. He has since managed to overcome his fears and now proudly presented his winter look when walking the park.

Puppy 1082

It is so sad that so many dogs have just a number. No name — no home, and until they are rescued, they do not have much of a personality either. 1082 was a very lucky number.

He was embraced into Angela's home and got a new name, and she has since been praising him for chewing her slippers, ruining her sofas, and showering her with love.

Winter Dog

When someone takes saving a dog as a mission in life, the odds are that nothing will go wrong. This stunning labrador was taken in and has been living a life of a king.

Sometimes it looks as if the dog wasn't the only one saved, and this young lady won the jackpot, too, by bringing Rocky into her life.

Threes' Company

Not only did this family embrace a dog into their home, but they took in a handicapped one with only three legs. This family is for sure one of a kind.

These two cute girls have learned a great lesson in life. They will know to accept whoever comes their way, no matter how different they might be, and the best thing of all — they have a pet pillow to lean on whenever in need.

Now You See Me, Now You Don't

Poor little Jasper was found deserted in the woods. He weighed just 4 kg at the time. Irena, who found him, took him to the rescue dog center, where he was cleaned and fed.

The following day Irena went to see him and couldn't find him. He then picked out of the cupboard door when he felt safe. Today he weighs 13.5 kg and lives in his own house with his own family.

Loverdog

The Sports Dog Fan

It's always heartwarming when someone adopts a dog, but when a well-known musician or sportsman takes a lost dog in, it's all that plus high-profile "awww" sounds. They are stars that many look up to and set as a role model.

So, here we have Johnny O'Connor on a hot summer's day smooching his new companion, who he rescued and embraced into his home.

A Prime Jack Russell

There are many sides to politicians that are rarely spoken of. Former British Priminister Boris Jonson adopted a mixed Jack Russell from the Friends of Animals Wales rescue shelter.

Boris and his partner Carrie Symonds had the Russell delivered to the front door of 10 Downing St. as only a Prime Minister would. We wonder if the little pooch gets to vote.

Louie

There is no age to love, and when Lyn Sauter first set eyes on seven-year-old Louie, she knew it was love at first sight. She didn't care how young he was.

Lyn adopted Louie, the Pekinese, and gave him a warm and loving home. There are no rules when it comes to love, especially when it comes to a dog's love.

His Eyes Say It All

Not too many words are needed to describe the emotions in this photo. Lea Goode, a volunteer at a dog rescue center, couldn't resist this cutie and decided to take him home.

She named him Cookie and changed another dog's life upside down. As she was working with abandoned dogs on a regular basis, it was only a matter of time before she falls for one.

One Big Happy Family

Nikolai Sprouse, who was only seven years old at the time, chose Cuddles out of all the other dogs in the kennels. Cuddles became a new brother to him and his sister, Leila.

It warms our hearts how little children refer to their pets as a brother or sister, and love them just as much. Between us, sometimes even more.