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Benny was a resident at Carson Animal Care Centre, a 'high-kill' shelter in Gardena, California. Despite his "sweet and shy" demeanour, things weren't looking good for the eight-month-old pit bull. But just as Benny's luck seemed to be running out, one family took a shine to the pup and decided to give him a loving home. Footage of Benny's reaction was published on YouTube and has since had more than 5.5 million views. The commentary with the video reads: "Much has been written about the impact adoption can have on the life of an unloved pet. But words pale in comparison to seeing that unbridled joy first hand.

YouTube Benny, a "sweet and shy" dog didn't have the best future to look forward to

"Up until recently, a sweet but shy dog named Benny had no idea what the future had in store for him, or how close he came to seeing his cut short. "As a resident of the Carson Animal Care Center, a high-kill shelter in Gardena, California, all he could do was sit and wait for someone to come along and save him, which he did week after week with no success. But then that all changed. "Earlier this month, Benny was finally adopted by a loving family. His reaction upon resizing that happy fact? Priceless." At the start of the video all the other dogs at the shelter are barking, but Benny sits quietly and keeps to himself.

YouTube Benny's tail started wagging when his name started being called

Once his name start's being called, Benny begins wagging his tail, and when he sees the red lead can barely keep his feet on the ground. When the lead is on and his cage door is opened, Benny can no longer contain his excitement and makes a dash for the exit with his new owners by his side. Outside, he can no longer contain his excitement and starts jumping for joy. YouTube user HerdingDogRescuer said: "What a sweet boy! Glad he got a forever home. I have three rescues and will always adopt rescues. So many great dogs sitting in cages waiting for someone to love."

YouTube Benny was literally jumping for joy when his new owners came to meet him