As you probably know, there’s nothing that feels better than a genuine hug. Whether you’re having a bad day or celebrating some kind of good news, it makes you feel better. Simply put, hugs are powerful.

Hugs come with benefits

Numerous studies have been done to identify whether hugs offer any benefits…and they do. Experts found that hugs help fight illness, create a sense of security, reduce stress, and even release oxytocin. The latter is known as the “love hormone,” which the body releases when two people embrace. That’s why hugging feels so incredible.

Animals hug too

Similar to humans, animals also hug. If you have pets or have even been to the zoo, you might’ve seen this for yourself. Especially when it comes to primates, they’re always holding onto each other in a loving embrace.

Waiting for adoption

Visiting an animal shelter is difficult. Every aspect of it tugs at your heartstrings. As you walk by one cage after another, you want to adopt every creature. A lot of dogs will run to the front of their kennel, barking and wagging their tails in anticipation of being noticed.

Documenting the truth

Reporters cover all kinds of stories. Some of these are fun and cool. But other times, they’re sent to a location that makes their job more challenging. Regardless, their goal is to tell the truth…good or bad.

One reporter’s story

As it so happened, one reporter was given an assignment that entailed visiting a local animal shelter. For him, it was just another story, nothing special about it. As far as he was concerned, it was just another ordinary day covering a story.

Making a friend

But immediately after going outside to the doggie play area, he was greeted by a beautiful dog. Although the reporter didn’t have any kind of treats on him, this sweet girl automatically gravitated to him. But what happened next was completely unexpected…in a good way.

Well, hello there

This sweet pup wrapped her legs around the reporter and wouldn’t let go. The hug she gave was real and intense. So, of course, the reporter felt compelled to hug the dog in return. Besides, she was super cute.

A magical moment

Initially, this reporter didn’t know what to think. But it didn’t take long for him to realize that this pup wanted to show and perhaps receive affection. As the two stood there hugging, people threw out comments about their amazing connection.

Not budging

Even if he’d tried, there was no way this dog was going to release her hold on him. Come to find out, she’d been neglected in its past. Upon learning this piece of information, rather than try to shoo her, the reporter encouraged her to keep hugging…and she did.

I choose you

You know, they say when you visit a shelter to adopt a pet, it’s the animal that usually chooses the human, not the other way around. That day, this dog chose the reporter. And she did everything possible to make sure he knew.

This reporter recognized their special connection. Not only did he cover a great story but he also adopted the pup. If you want to witness this miraculous story for yourself, we invite you to click on the video below. We recommend you have some tissue nearby.

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Source: Bored Panda, Reddit, YouTube