People do not love shelter dogs very much, and it is always sad when they have to be put down. The growing trend of adopting stray dogs and cats is a good thing because it helps more and more of these animals find loving families and new homes.

Russ the Pitbull found a loving home with 20-year-old student Kayla Filoon, who volunteered at an animal shelter in Philadelphia as a dog walker. Russ was taken to work with Filoon at ACCT Philly, and they fell in 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! (h/t)

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