Cheech, the smiling shelter dog from a viral photo, has been adopted

There are millions of photos of cute dogs on the internet, but for one homeless dog with a mischievous smile, an adorable pic is what led to him finding his forever home and a happy ending.

Meet Cheech, a super-cute pup in Texas who actually smiles for the camera! When rescuers at the City of Waller Animal Shelter and Rescue posted the dog’s goofy grin to Facebook, the picture quickly went viral. The result was over seven thousands views and a thousand-plus comments, all about Cheech!

Thanks to all of the attention, the small dog—who looks like a Chihuahua or Miniature Pinscher mix—received 50 adoption applications and has now found his forever home.

What makes this news even more wonderful is the story behind the brand new shelter that rescued Cheech. The City of Waller Animal Shelter and Rescue was recently founded by Leah Sipe, a local police officer, and other first responders. Their shelter is the only one in Waller County, which is just outside of Houston. If it weren’t for them, animals like Cheech would likely have been put down within 72 hours of their capture by the pound.

Sipe told FOX31 that the adoption application for Cheech that most stood out to her was from a woman named Carrie, who had lost her beloved German Shepherd to cancer a few days before. Carrie’s other dog, Dusty, had since become depressed and refused to eat. When Carrie and Dusty met Cheech, however, it seemed that everyone’s spirits were lifted:

Although Cheech is no longer available, the City of Waller Animal Shelter and Rescue notes that they have plenty of other cuties who are looking for homes, including this sweet little guy. So if you’re in Texas and in search of a new BFF, you might want to keep tabs on the Waller Animal Shelter’s Facebook page. Because you never know when you’ll spot your pet soul mate.