10/08/2026
EMI: 975 DAYS IN OUR CARE.
ONE PROMISE KEPT.
$38,475 — Boarding Expenses
$4,537 — Veterinary Expenses
$3,500+ — Food, Treats, Medications, Senior Supplements & Enrichment
Total investment: More than $46,512
Emi was eight years old when she was surrendered to the Pasadena shelter in December 2023 because her owner could no longer care for her. We followed her progress daily, but months passed without a single expression of interest. Despite her grizzled face, Emi had an undeniable sparkle and an effervescence that drew you in. We simply couldn't bear to see that light fade.
On December 28, 2023, we welcomed Emi into our rescue, knowing that finding her a home could take months, years, or perhaps never happen.
Without an available foster home, Emi would need to be boarded in a commercial kennel. Thankfully, a dear friend was able to provide her with an occasional respite from kennel life.
We made a conscious decision to dedicate whatever resources were necessary to her care and well-being. That commitment came at a significant cost. By investing so heavily in Emi, we had to turn away younger, more readily adoptable Akitas who also needed rescue. But we had made a promise to Emi, and we were determined to honor it.
975 days. More than $46,512 invested. Not a single adoption application. Just when our faith was beginning to waver, everything changed. Emi's guardian angel contacted us, describing how he had fallen in love with her before even meeting her in person!
On August 28, 2026, after ensuring he and Emi were a good fit, Emi's long wait was finally over. She was welcomed into the loving arms of her new dad, Abi!
We are absolutely overjoyed! Emi and Abi are already deeply bonded, as though they've been together forever. She deserves every bit of the love and pampering she's now receiving. Thank you, Abi, for seeing Emi for who she is, not how old she is.
BUT EMI'S STORY ALSO ILLUSTRATES THE REALITIES OF SENIOR DOG RESCUE.
Not many senior dogs are as fortunate as Emi, but they deserve a chance. Taking on a dog with an uncertain adoption outcome requires an extraordinary investment of time and financial resources. For smaller rescues like ours, this level of commitment is simply not sustainable on a regular basis.
We would not change our decision to save Emi. Her happy ending was worth every sacrifice. However, more than $46,512 dedicated to one dog represents resources we no longer have to support other Akitas in need.
NOW, WE NEED YOUR HELP.
We must replenish our rescue funds so we can continue accepting dogs, providing necessary medical care, and giving other less fortunate Akitas the second chance they deserve. With the holidays approaching, the need will only grow.
If Emi's story has touched your heart, please consider making a donation. Every contribution, regardless of size, helps us open our doors to the next Akita in need.
We kept our promise to Emi. With your support, we can keep making promises to others.
Your donations are greatly appreciated and can be made using the BLUE DONATE BUTTON at the top right of our page.
Checks can be mailed to:
Namaste Akita Rescue Alliance, Inc.
P.O. Box 418
Lafayette, CA 94549
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND FOR BELIEVING IN OUR MISSION.
