For the last four years, this sweet pup named Belinha had been inseparable from her best friend and owner, Telma Maria. Unfortunately, their time together was cut short lately — but Belinha’s love for her owner continues on.

Maria, who resided in Brazil, died earlier this month after a lengthy cancer struggle. Throughout her difficult battle and worsening health, Belinha never left her side — and the dog’s consoling presence lifted Maria’s spirits.

Maria’s son, Dionsio Neto, stated online, “My mother said she was her nurse.” “Belinha was the most devoted friend.”

Given how important Belinha was in Maria’s life, it was only natural that she would be there at her funeral. Belinha sat somberly alongside other family members, as though realizing the gravity of the mournful meeting.

What occurred next, however, had the greatest impact on Maria’s son.

Belinha astonished everyone by remaining at Maria’s side throughout the rest of the service, exactly as she’d always done when Maria was alive. Neto wanted to photograph those sensitive moments, writing:

“Animals are unconditional love.”

Belinha continued to weep after the wedding, wailing frequently for Maria’s absence. So, in the hopes of offering the dog some comfort, Neto and a few family members agreed to show Belinha where her closest buddy now lives – a visit that seemed to relax her.

Belinha broke free from her leash at the cemetery and raced straight to Maria’s grave, despite the fact that she had not been there when she was laid to rest. Neto was once again moved to see that the bond between his mom and her dog remained unbroken, telling the newspaper Estadão:

“Even in death, my mother teaches me that love is not limited to people. My mother and Belinha show that animal love is more powerful than many people believe.”

In time, Belinha’s heart will begin to heal, knowing that Maria is never far away. Belinha now has a lifelong home with Neto, so she won’t have to go through the grief process alone.