Animals really do touch our hearts. :)
We got our dog, at 5 months old from a shelter and she had already been abused. She was a nervous wreck. I can't fathom what kind of person can do that. It's a year later and she's great. Still has her quirks but she is the most sweetest loving dog. :)
It breaks my heart to see all the dogs and cats in the shelters and know that they can't all be saved. If people would only be responsible owners and neuter their pets (unless they're breeders maybe), then there might not be so many throw-aways. :(