Simon the dog has been through a lot, but that didn't stop him from comforting a friend in need.

Simon, who is currently recovering from abuse at Paws & Claws Animal Clinic in Columbia, South Carolina, has a bit of healing to do before he's ready to graduate from treatment. But in the meantime, he loves to spend time with his friend Sammie, a four-month-old boxer puppy.

Sammie was rescued from a kill shelter after being spray painted, dragged and shot by his previous owner. 

When he was finally brought to Paws & Claws, he was in pretty poor shape — but the veterinary team, bolstered by Simon's moral support, has improved his condition significantly.

Simon even offered Sammie a comforting paw before a round of surgery on Tuesday.

Now, the two "brothers in rescue" are spending even more time together — even cuddling in the same crate and, we assume, talking about dog things, like treats and hydrants.

Sammie's surgery went well, and although his road to health is still a long one, he remains in good spirits.

And it doesn't hurt to have a friend around, either.

[H/T: The Dodo]

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