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Furry Tails: The Bonds Of Friendship

Simon and Sammie are two dogs that have already been through a lot in their young lives.

Both are the victims of animal abuse and cruelty at its worst, but both are also resilient and strong.

They are being cared for at an animal shelter in South Carolina where they have formed a special bond, helping each other through the tough times. Brothers, even adopted ones, stick together.

Simon, according to People Magazine, is suffering from an awful case of mange. The 1-year-old mixed breed was dropped off at the Paws & Claws Animal Clinic as a stray.

Sammie, however, is the sadder of the two cases. At about 5-months-old, the boxer mix has been through what can only be described as hell.

According to the Animal Clinic, Sammie was shot in the head, dragged behind a car, and then left to suffer in pain for three days. When he kept clinging to life, his owner decided to take him "to the pound so they could 'finish the job.'"

When Simon saw Sammie in his horrible condition and suffering from so much pain, the dog went over and decided to comfort the younger pup. The shelter took a photo, which has now gone viral.

Two horrifically abused creatures sticking together. The donations have poured in, and now Simon and Sammie are being well-cared for.

Over the last few weeks, Simon's condition has been improving. The shelter tells People Magazine that he is "doing great;" his skin issues getting better and he's gaining weight.

And while Sammie has a much longer road to recovery, there are hopeful signs. According to People, the shelter says Sammie's survival is "basically a miracle."

He's "not out of the woods" just yet, but is "responding to treatment," People says.

Over the weekend, Paws & Claws posted to their Facebook page that Sammie's front leg injuries are healing better than they anticipated. Then, on Monday, they posted a video of the little pup limping around, but giving out wet kisses to shelter workers.

They've also posted a video of Simon and Sammie playing with a bone together.

They'll help each other heal. In much better hands now, and through the bonds of love and friendship.

To keep up with Simon & Sammie's recoveries, visit the Paws & Claws Animal Clinic's website here.

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Stay tuned animal lovers for more Furry Tails! You can follow me on Twitter at @HeatherLang24

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