When it comes to kindness and compassion, animals seem to have no limits. They can be neglected but still make a loving pet for someone who steps forward and adopts them. They appear to forgive better than any other species on the planet.

Sammie, a four-month-old boxer mix, was admitted to an animal shelter as an example of this boundless compassion and empathy. Sammie was in poor health and terrified of his new surroundings until Simon entered his room to reassure him.

“When Sammie first arrived at the shelter, he was terrified and perplexed. Who could blame him? He’d been spray painted, shot in the head, and dragged behind their car. These stories make me feel sick to my stomach.”

However, soon after he was brought in, another abused dog named Simon seemed to know his need for friend. Simon entered Sammie’s room unprompted and lightly rested his paw against Sammie’s.  I don’t know what will move you to tears if this image doesn’t.

Simon is no longer abandoning Sammie. They’ve become friends and seem to have a special bond.

Despite being rescued weeks apart, the two dogs appear to know that they came from similar situations.

This little guy is in desperate need of affection and assistance. How could you do something so heinous to this sweet little face?

While Simon will be available for adoption soon, Sammie’s recovery will take some time, according to Jackie O’Sullivan, co-founder of Rescue Dogs Rock NYC. “The compassion and understanding between animals is beyond me,” she told her friends. That is something with which I completely agree.

We’ll never understand how Simon knew Sammie needed a friend at that point. Fortunately, he knew and could be there for Sammie in a way that no human could. This little guy needs all the help he can get, so please help in any way you can.