Ryan Dorsey Pays Tribute to Beloved Dog Emmy Shared With Late Ex Naya Rivera: A Bond That Endures

Ryan Dorsey Mourns the Loss of His and Naya Riveras Dog Emmy Keep Mommy Company

Naya Rivera and husband Ryan Dorsey Gregg DeGuire/WireImage/Getty Images

Ryan Dorsey is grieving the loss of Emmy, the dog belonging to him and his late ex-wife Naya Rivera. The 40-year-old actor posted an Instagram Reel on Monday, April 8. The reel included a collection of photos showing Rivera, their son Josey (7 years old), and Emmy. The photos were set to the song "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" from The Wizard of Oz.

Josey and I returned home from the baseball opening day to a heartbreaking sight. Emmy, our beloved pet, was peacefully resting on the bathroom floor next to her older sister Lucy. Dorsey shared in a post that Emmy had passed away, mentioning that she had lived a full life and would have turned 10 this summer. It has been a difficult weekend for the family.

Dorsey fondly remembered the day they brought Emmy home. She was the smallest of the litter and the last one remaining. They drove to San Diego to meet her, and her name, Emmy, already suited her perfectly. She was also known as Emmington Brown and Sweet Baby Emmers. Oh, sweet babygirl Emmy, you will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Dorsey remembered the moment when he carried Emmy in his arms, with her birth mother following them to the door, and his new wife by his side. He mentioned how emotional it was to drive home with Emmy and their dog in the car, as he saw Emmy's birth mother crying.

I was thrilled to welcome you into our family, but I couldn't help feeling a bit sad about separating you from your mom. She followed us as we left, tugging at my heartstrings. However, this is part of the dog adoption process, so I wiped away my tears and drove back to LA on the 5 North with you by my side. And just like that, you became a part of our family. When we introduced you to Lucy, our other dog, she wasn't exactly thrilled. It took her a few years to warm up to you, but who's keeping track of time anyway?

Emmy was described as the sweetest and most quiet dog, often seen on set with Dorsey. She didn't care about any distractions, staying focused. Even if a dog barked or approached, she remained unfazed, confidently walking with her head held high. Dorsey fondly remembered her as his loyal companion, always by his side on their adventures. Emmy had a talent for sleeping soundly, earning praise for her impressive napping skills.

Dorsey expressed his feelings in a heartfelt post, saying, "You were my emotional support animal through it all. I’m gonna miss you Emmers. You were one of the good ones. I could say so much more but I know you never had an Instagram — but you were so cool, I know you never gave a shit about IG tributes so I’ll wrap it up. Thank you for all the love and cuddles. Keep mommy company and we’ll see you on the other side of the . We ❤️ you."

Dorsey and Rivera tied the knot in 2014 and parted ways in 2018. They welcomed their son Josey in 2015 and continued to co-parent him even after Rivera's passing at the age of 33 in July 2020. Rivera tragically drowned while swimming at Lake Piru in California with Josey, who was 4 years old at the time. After a five-day search, her body was recovered.

Since Rivera passed away, Dorsey has shared moments of his connection with his son. In September 2022, Josey was photographed with the newest member of their family: a goldendoodle puppy.

The proud father shared a picture on Instagram with the caption, "Early birthday gift for @JoseyDorsey! 8 weeks old. They called her Goldie, but I've been calling her Goldie Bear. She is the most adorable girl."

Editor's P/S:

Ryan Dorsey's touching tribute to his and Naya Rivera's beloved dog Emmy is a poignant reminder of the enduring bonds between pets and their families. Emmy's quiet strength and unwavering loyalty, as described by Dorsey, are testaments to the profound impact animals can have on our lives. The heart-wrenching loss of this cherished companion underscores the importance of cherishing the time we have with our furry friends.

Dorsey's account of the adoption process and Emmy's integration into their family offers a glimpse into the complexities of pet ownership. The bittersweet emotions of separation from her birth mother and the gradual acceptance by their other dog are relatable experiences for many families who welcome a new pet into their homes. Through Emmy's story, Dorsey highlights the joy, love, and unwavering companionship that pets bring to our lives, making them irreplaceable members of our families.