All shelter dogs are waiting to be adopted, dreaming of a family who will love them and give them a forever home. There’s nothing quite like the moment a dog realizes it finally has an owner.

One heartwarming viral video shows how adoption can totally change a dog’s life as a poor pit bull goes from frightened to overjoyed in one moment.

As much as shelters try to keep their dogs happy and comfortable, it can be a scary place for a dog. When an 8-month-old pit bull named Benny was at Carson Animal Care Shelter, he looked frightened and alone, never sure what would happen to him next.

A4899631 My name is BENNY I’m an approximately 8 month old male pit bull. I am not yet neutered. I have been at the…

Posted by Saving Carson Shelter Dogs on Monday, November 23, 2015
In a video, Benny is seen in a shelter crowded with other barking dogs. He seems timid, keeping back in his kennel.

When people arrive at his gate, he isn’t sure what to make of it, remaining cautious.

When one ties a red collar around his neck, he isn’t sure where he’s going. But then suddenly he realizes what’s happening:

He’s being adopted!

Benny takes one look at the couple there to greet him, and seemingly knows he’s finally getting out. He starts jumping for joy.

His excitement continues as he heads outside, getting a taste of freedom and joyfully wagging his tail as it sets in he’s never going back to the shelter.

The shelter was just as thrilled that Benny had found a family.

“This special little guy captured the hearts of everyone who stopped by his kennel,” Saving Carson Shelter Dogs wrote on Facebook.

“He hit the jackpot when this beautiful family chose to take him home.”

We are so happy for this dog! It goes to show the huge impact adopting a shelter dog can have. Share this inspiring story!