Dogs, with their unwavering optimism and boundless joy, do so much to help us get through challenging times in life. And occasionally we have the chance to repay the favor and help them in some way. In light of this, prepare to meet Nora the dog, and Archie, an 11-month-old baby. Since the moment they first met, this duo has been best friends. Their story will make you smile and serve as a gentle reminder of the strength of the bond that can exist between a human and a dog.

However, let’s go back to the beginning. You see, Nora’s life didn’t exactly get off to a smooth start. In actuality, it was the complete opposite of that. Nora was raised in a violent household and as a result, suffers from severe emotional scarring. Nora was terrified of almost everyone and everything as a result of extensive abuse. The dog would lash out in fear every time someone tried to approach her.

As Archie’s mother Elizabeth Spence tells the Dodo, “you’re likely to encounter a bunch of kids, cats, and/or dogs lying about the house anywhere at any time of day.” Until she met little Archie, that is. When Nora and the baby first met, she immediately accepted the child, and the two soon became almost inseparable. Nora was first drawn to the kid by his laid-back demeanor, and their bond only became deeper over time.

All the animals, especially Nora, “seem to react to Archie’s being a laid-back, cheerful, good-natured baby,” Spence added. She has a history of abuse and is terrified of practically everything. Archie, however, does not. She loves him so much! Most likely, the infant gives Nora the security and safety she needs to move past her difficult history. What a cute couple!