Many shelter dogs arrive injured, sick or emotionally scarred, and it takes a special kind of person to bring those dogs back to enjoy the best that life has to offer. People who dedicate themselves to rescuing dogs are some of the best kinds of people. These rescue pups agree, and the before and after reactions caught on camera are truly heartwarming.

These dogs now get to run and jump and cuddle, and so much more, giving the dogs a chance to live a new life with a loving family. After finding their forever homes, they become trusting, and their smiles say it all.

Penny had a smile that even the coldest heart couldn't resist!

A post shared by Cammie Hall (@manyadventuresofpiperandpenny) on Feb 21, 2018 at 5:58pm PST

Teddy is letting his goofy personality shine now that he knows he is safe, warm and fed.

A post shared by Carrie Mathews (@carrie.613) on Feb 15, 2018 at 8:36pm PST

Rosie is so much happier now that she has met her mom.

A post shared by Rose (@rosieposiepit) on Nov 2, 2015 at 11:50am PST

Jax is the poster dog for all of your before and after photo needs.

A post shared by Jax (@jaxdoodledog) on Jan 18, 2018 at 1:55pm PST

Lanka hasn't had a sad expression cross her face since adoption.

A post shared by Kaminten & Laika (@kaminten.and.pup) on Dec 9, 2016 at 10:36am PST

Luca has become a big fan of the heat since being allowed to roam outside.

A post shared by Anthony (@abaskak) on Oct 19, 2017 at 5:46am PDT

Pippin has definitely found his fur-ever home. Look at that smile!

A post shared by Pippin Pup (@pippin__pup) on Oct 21, 2017 at 4:16pm PDT

Pillow has a face as dreamy as lying down on a soft pillow after a long day at work.

A post shared by Katie Olson (@daddys_lil_wrench_monkey) on Sep 5, 2015 at 10:26am PDT

Ralphie is a lot happier now, and he has a lot better haircut.

A post shared by Molly Easterling (@__hotamolly1114) on Jul 25, 2017 at 10:54am PDT

Remy is a happy and loveable puppa now that he has been adopted.

Before and after adoption. There was a happy, lovable dog hidden behind all that fear.

Frank isn't shy to the camera now that he is safe and warm at home.

Toby appreciates being able to share his owner's bed each and every night.

Butters can't stop jumping for joy every time Daddy comes home from work.

Ziggy is so much happier since being able to call someplace home.

Jax is all smiles since finding his freedom.

Ajax loves to dress up, and enjoys long walks with his new owner.

Riley is looking much happier and healthier since being loved and cared for.

Rufus has been doing GREAT since being adopted 4 years ago.

Zoe also enjoys dressing up, showing off her pretty in pink style for her owners.

Don loves the outdoors, and has been thriving since being adopted.

Virginia is the most caring pitbull you would ever meet. And she has a fabulous gel manicure.