Shelter dogs don’t get much love from their owners and it’s always sad when they have to be put down. Fortunately, the growing adoption movement for found dogs and cats is helping more and more of these shelter animals find loving families and new homes.

Russ the Pitbull found his 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 brought to ACCT Philly, where Filoon works, and it was love at first sight.

According to Filoon, he knew there was a connection between them from the moment he saw Russ. Apparently, he felt the same way, as seen in this photo Filon’s friend posted on Facebook of Russ being affectionate. (h/t)

Meet Russ. I mean, who can take their eyes off that sweet face?

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

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

Russ was very grateful and is a very loving dog.

He loved to cuddle!

According to Filoon, he is the “perfect dog”

“One night I’m sitting in my chair, doing my homework, and he’s trying to find ways to hold me.”

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

Now animal lovers around the world are showering Russ with love!

“He’s a love bug, honestly.”

Filoon has six other housemates who adore Russ

It took Russ a while to adjust to his new surroundings.

With constant love, care and plenty of rest, she recovered quite well.

But now he is healthy and happy!

Kayla hopes Russ’ story will inspire others to adopt too.