Japanese Man Sells Ferrari to Care for “Problematic Dogs” After His Pet Saves His Life
Twelve years ago, Hirotaka Saito hit rock bottom. His business was failing, and with nowhere left to turn, he decided to end his life. But as he tried to leave home, his 70kg dog planted itself firmly in front of the door—and wouldn’t move. That quiet act of loyalty changed everything.
Today, Saito is 54 years old, and instead of running a company, he runs a free canine rescue center in Yaizu, Shizuoka Prefecture. It's called Wansfree, and it’s a haven for dogs that most people have given up on—the ones that bite, snarl, and can’t be handled easily. Many come from abusive backgrounds.
“These dogs bite not because they’re bad,” says Saito. “It’s because someone hurt them first.”
The center currently cares for 40 dogs and 8 cats. But it all started when Saito made a decision: to sell his luxury Ferrari and use the money to buy land where the animals could live without being chained or caged. “I want them to feel free—and loved,” he says.
He wears three pairs of gloves to protect himself from bites. Still, he’s been injured more than once. It doesn’t stop him. “When I realized that a dog saved my life, I knew my life’s purpose was to save dogs,” he told Japanese media outlet FNN.
Saito now hopes to expand Wansfree and provide shelter for up to 300 dogs by 2028. He’s looking for public support to make that happen. Despite the challenges, he says he’s never been happier.
“I’m better off now than I’ve ever been. I feel so lucky to have discovered this path.”
His story has gone viral in Japan, with many online praising his compassion. One commenter wrote, “Dogs feel just like humans. They deserve respect. I salute this man.” Another said, “If there’s a way to help, I want to be part of it.”