Emma, a 14-year-old Poodle, was brought into a shelter inside a crate with only a soft blanket and a couple of toys for comfort. She weighed barely four pounds.
When Seattle residents Adrian Lott and Spencer Erickson came across her photo, they instantly felt she was meant to be theirs. Two weeks later, Emma finally stepped into the home that would become her forever place.
Emma’s Road Home
Emma’s first moments in her new home were filled with hesitation. Frail and frightened, she also required urgent medical care.
“We suspect she had suffered some pretty serious neglect prior to being taken to the shelter. Her spine was quite curved, and she was incredibly shaky on her back legs.” Lott said in an interview.
At less than four pounds, Emma could hardly stand or walk, and she needed extensive dental treatment. But none of this discouraged her new family.
They were determined to provide her with the care and love she needed for however long she had left.
“She developed a connection to me pretty quickly. As she healed and settled into our home, she started following me room to room, and really enjoyed cuddling on my lap,” Lott said.
During her first days, Emma shook constantly, likely from fear and the trauma of neglect. But once she realized she was safe, the trembling slowly disappeared.
Watch the heartwarming moment here:
A post shared by Adrian & Spencer (@adoptolddogs)
While many adopters look for puppies, senior dogs like Emma are often overlooked, despite the deep love they can give. Adrian and Spencer’s story shows the joy that comes from opening your heart to an older dog.
New Lease On Life
When Adrian and Spencer first adopted Emma, they believed she might only have a few months left.
But Emma proved them wrong. She not only survived but recently celebrated two full years in her forever home.
“Knowing that she’s at two years, with no signs of being done yet… I’m so, so grateful. Our joke is that she’s never going to die – Emma’s amazing vet team said on Friday that ‘she’s basically pickled’,” Emma’s parents wrote on Instagram.
Love and care had given Emma a new lease on life.
Now she spends her days with four other senior dogs, enjoying companionship and comfort.
She has gained weight, undergone hip surgery, and found peace in a home filled with affection.
“When you have a senior dog and you don’t know how long you’re gonna get to spend with them, you enjoy every single second. She’s gonna be happy and safe with us for as long as she has. She’s never gonna wonder if she’s important again,” Emma’s mom told GeoBeats Animals.
A post shared by Adrian & Spencer (@adoptolddogs)
Emma’s journey is a reminder that senior dogs have just as much love to give as any puppy. By welcoming them, you may discover a bond unlike any other.
