My Akita Kids

You should watch this and learn- BLOAT

2011-11-13T09:21:00.000-08:00

This video was taken by someone that did not know what was happening to the dog they were fostering. They took the video so they could show their rescue what was happening and ask for help...they DID take him straight to vet. They dog was saved from this episode.

They were trying to find out what was wrong they were NOT trying to torture the dog. They did not know what they were seeing. What they were seeing was BLOAT.

Now they do....Now we all do thanks to the video...

Champion Jazz!

2011-10-06T02:42:00.000-07:00

CH Kuroi Kao All That Jazz

Jazz has finally done it - he has become a Champion on paper - he has always been a Champion to me! Paul did a wonderful job with - even if Jazz was a brat that last show!

Saving Sasha

2011-09-22T03:27:00.000-07:00

Sasha was dumped in a shelter in LA because her owners did not have time for her anymore...The shelter told us she was too old and sick and not worth saving....Well aa bunch of wonderful people decided different. So many people pulled together from coast to coast to save the beautiful girl who touch so many hearts.

Sasha is safe now in a wonderful home in Arizona. She's not sick, or sad anymore and she was well worth saving...

Thank you to everyone who decided to give her a chance!

It's been WAY too long

2011-08-29T13:02:00.000-07:00

Ya, I have been totally remiss in my blogging about MY dogs and so much has happend! Jazz has gotten his second major and at that point was 5 from finish...now he is only 2 away from finish.

I put him with a really great handler - okay one of the best Akita handlers in the country. (Special thanks to Keith and Nakodo for sharing. Here is Jazz and his Handler Paul Levesque - what a difference having a man handle has made! Jazz is happy to be in the ring looks amazing and is totally in love with Paul.

I think he will be very sad when he finishes and doesn't get to go to "Big Show" anymore....

More to come and the show photos when they arrive!!!!

Memphis Akita - UPDATE ADOPTED!

2011-05-03T17:17:00.000-07:00

Remember the video of the shelter that killed the akita 39 seconds after he was surrendered? We all saw it...Well, this boy is in the same shelter - he will be killed as soon as stray hold it off...

#225703 - Akita, black/brown, male, 4 yr old. Stray in
05.01.11/Out 05.06.11. Can't release until then.

If you are interested in any of these dogs, please let Tracy know.

Here's his contact information:

Tracy Dunlap, Sr. ACT

Memphis Animal Services

3456 Tchulahoma Rd.

Memphis, TN 38118

(901) 362-5310

tracy.dunlap@memphistn.gov (at memphistn.gov)

Thank you.

Jan Courtney

Jazz

2011-05-03T16:22:00.000-07:00

Akita on Craig's List, NH

2011-05-01T06:19:00.000-07:00

This dog was on Craig's list - the post was flagged for removal because they asked for money - you can't SELL animals on Craig's list:

Akita (Southern NH)

Date: 2011-04-30, 11:57AM EDT
Reply to: comm-xawmy-2354767953@craigslist.org ^{[Errors when replying to ads?]}

Joe is 4 year old male Akita and he must find a new home quickly. He is leash trained, house broken and has a typical Akita personality. He is on the small side for the breed he only weighs 70 lbs. I would prefer someone who is familiar with the breed, ideally a previous akita owner. A $200 re-homing fee will apply, but is negotiable if you can demonstrate you can provide the right home for him. I will deliver him to you.

Sprinfield April 2011

2011-05-01T04:50:00.001-07:00

This was a cluster of shows in Springfield on Easter Weekend. Jazz looked great but this will likely be his last shows for a while and maybe forever. See, Jazz does not like the ring, he hates as a matter of fact.

Some of my breeder friends think that he should just do it because I want him to, but, he's an Akita, he doesn't do things JUST BECAUSE I want him to. He's not Kat, who will do anything because I ask it of her.

So, I have made the decision that he doesn't need to be a show dog...he just needs to be a dog, my dog. I don't love him any less for not wanting to show, why would I?

It's a pretty big bummer that I have spent soooo much time and money to make him into a show dog and me into a handler. It was not all for nothing...He has 7 points, only needs 8 more to finish. But, it does not seem that it is meant to be. That said I was proud of how he showed, he looked great and moved beautifully, stayed right with me.

Anyway, here he is at the Easter Shows:

This was Friday, day one. Day one is always tough, he was a little grumpy but did what was asked. That is my friend Linda with Teagan, he won Winner's Dog. Teagan is a beautiful puppy and will make his championship very quickly.

Jazz on Saturday - much perkier and did a very nice job. I am finally getting the hang of this handling thing...He was beaten for Winner's Dog by Marine who is a very nice BIG young dog.

Love this shot - I am finally smiling...and Jazz looks so good here!

Jazz, Nancy and Kodi, Ed and Marine in the Winner's Class -

Winner's Class from a different angle - Marine took winner's dog. Kodi took reserve.

Jazz relaxing before class on Easter - I had already decided he was done showing by now, so we were just there to fill the major and have fun...

This is Sunday - Open Dog Class, Jazz won. Figures.

Winner's Class,. Jazz, Nancy and Kodi, Ed and Marine, Linda and Teagan. Teagan won Winner's Dog that day for his first major.

So for now he will just be a dog, I'll take him to classes and try some Rally runs with him. He likes to be doing something, perhaps Rally is his thing...it was for Kat.

Hilda only has until April 13 - Please

2011-04-01T09:02:00.000-07:00

UPDATE - HILDA WAS ADOPTED!!!!!

****Just want to clarify the shelter in trying very very hard to save her - she has been there a long time and they have even gotten together $100 for transport for her. It is a Herculean effort so please let's help them help Hilda.

Williamson County Animal Shelter Franklin TN
Hilda Must Find A Home
It is rare that we make such a desperate plea for someone to adopt one of our dogs. However, this is an emergency. Hilda, an akita, has been a resident at our shelter for several months and unfortunately, her time is running out. She is ~3 years old and came to us as a stray. Hilda is a very special and uniqu...e dog that requires her to have a special and unique owner. When Hilda arrived, she showed little to no interest in humans. This probably stemmed from the fact that she had limited human interaction in her short little life. Most dogs at the shelter show negative behavior after sitting so long in a kennel. Hilda, on the other hand, has blossomed. She is completely crate trained, calm and very, very affectionate. All of the volunteers have fallen in love with her and it is so gratifying watching her become this very, special dog that has so much to offer. However, there are reasons Hilda has been with us for so long. You see, not only is Hilda heart-worm positive, she must also be an only dog. We do not know how advanced the disease is, however, she needs to be treated and she can only be treated once she is legally adopted. There is NO cost to the owner for the treatment and it is done at our shelter. After the treatment, she will be completely healthy. Without the treatment, she is terminal. She also has ‘issues’ with other dogs. She MUST be an only dog and can’t interact with other dogs. Her owner needs to be someone who understands that heart worm is not a death sentence if treated. Her owner also needs to understand her breed and be totally on board keeping her as an only dog. And lastly, her owner needs to be someone that wants a loyal, calm and loving companion who is potty-trained, low maintenance, a non-barker and a non-chewer. Hilda needs her special and unique owner to have a lifestyle that is relaxed and doesn’t want a dog to entertain them, but rather have a trusted companion to sit with in the evenings and enjoy a sunny afternoon in the yard. PLEASE CROSSPOST AND SHARE. The potential new owner will need to come to the shelter and fill out an application

Shelter Info:
Email
debbyl@williamson-tn.org
Phone
615-790-5590

UPDATE ON HILDA

From Bill at Heart of Dixie Akita Rescue:
I received an update about Hilda, the dog in Franklin, TN., from my contact there. The director is giving her until April 13th, then her time is up and she will be put down. If a foster or adopter can be found before that, her pull fees will be paid, and they will contribute $100 toward transport costs. She is a big favorite of the volunteers and staff, and everyone at the shelter really wants to see this girl get a chance. They have already kept her far longer than they really should. She is a really sweet pup, and if anyone has something they can do, please let me know ASAP. Or, communicate directly with the shelter manager dougb@williamson-tn.org.

Sachi - a happy ending!

2011-03-06T06:33:00.000-08:00

These are photos of Sachi, she and her pal Bear (he's at the bottom)were rescued from a horrible situation in CT. Although they came in together it was not possible to rehome them together. Bear is happily living in Philly and Sachi is living in Mass. with a loving family that is willing to give her all the time she needs to adjust to living without Bear and find her way in her new surroundings!

These are the kind of people that everyone in rescue prays for!

Sachi leaping for joy at camp in NH.

Sachi looking for buried treasure at the NH beach! Surf was up so all she found was surfers!

Sachi exploring the mighty Merrimac River in MA!

And here is Bear in case you haven't seen him.

SMOOOOCH!

2011-02-26T14:44:00.000-08:00

MAJOR!!!!!!!!!!

2010-12-29T16:02:00.000-08:00

I never thought it would happen but Jazzy did it...he got his first major AND it was a 4 point major!!!! SO now Jazz has 7 of the 15 points he needs to be a Champion and one of the two majors...Wow a year ago I thought that he would not get this far...now look!!!!

That lovely lady is Kim Holmes - she handled jazz for me at our Club's Annual Specialty Show - what a show for him to shine...

The first day was an evening show and I'm afraid we kept Jazz up past his bed time. Boy was he a grouch!!! This being his first show in a year plus I thought - well, okay he just does not like it, we are done...Everyone told me I should give it another day, since I had paid for three days. Mike just plain wanted to pull him but I figured I would at least finish out the weekend...I felt so bad for Kim, he was SUCH a brat! Reserve winner's dog was the best he could do.

Day two - as usual - he was different dog! Much better behaved, sprightly, happy to be there and very flashy! Jazz took Winner's Dog over 2 other very nice dogs, and THEN - - BEST OF OPPOSITE! Holy cow he actually beat two of my favorite dogs on the planet. Mellow and Zac - both veterans , but still very fine dogs! I nearly fainted, and I cried like an idiot!!! Everyone was sooo happy for me! I was really humbled by all the hugs and congrats we got.

Day three was a bust but who cares - he had already gotten a MAJOR and was a very good boy that day too...He was actually having FUN...which was even better than the win...Okay almost better than the win...

RALLY GIRL!!!!

2010-12-04T18:02:00.000-08:00

Yes Katsy earned her Rally Novice Title Today - She has worked so hard and has been such a good girl she deserves a million titles!

Kat got her first "leg" (out of three required for a title) back in September, with a very respectable score of 86! We had entered her for three days just in case something went wrong...And it did ME!!! Yup the first day she would have had a 98 if I had not walked right past 2 signs - missed them completely which got her disqualified...I felt like such a heel (pun intended)! So we tried again the next day and wow she got a 96 and third place...Not bad for my little fear girl!

So that was 2 legs completed - the third and final day was sooo long and she was soooo tired - she just not used to being away from home all day and sitting on a cement floor. That said, she earned an 83! Hurray!!! She qualified and earned that third leg - HER TITLE!!!

Kat will now have an RN after name to go with her CGC and TD...wow who would thunk it!

Please Help find these Dogs!

2010-12-01T06:34:00.000-08:00

****UPDATE****
All the dogs have been found and returned to Kristina! Hurray for miracles!

Book Buddies!

2010-11-06T08:39:00.001-07:00

This is Kat at one of her many visits to the Princeton Public Library - She is participating in their "Book Buddies" Program where kids get to spend a half hour reading to a dog.

Kat has been such a big hit there that not only the kids love her but most adults can't resist the chance to pat such beautiful gentle dog...And of course just about everyone asks the same question - "how much does she weigh?"

Kat has been such a good girl with this new experience - I am so proud of her!

We never get out on time because so many people want to stop and pat her!

This is Gabriel, one of Kat's may buddies - she has a waiting list of kids that want to spend time with her.

There's a butterfly in that little cloth cage - Kat was fascinated with it.

Chicopee Stray

2010-11-03T14:45:00.000-07:00

One year old intact male Akita found on Memorial Drive Chicopee MA. He s at TJO, Springfield AC Shelter on a 10 day stray hold.

Rescue Needs Rescue

2010-09-11T10:28:00.000-07:00

I have been doing a little fund raising for Akita Rescue lately, our latest endeavor was a raffle. We took it nation wide thanks to the the power of the internet. In just under 3 months we were able to raise enough money to cover all the boarding and vet fees for Midwest Akita Rescue Society for 3 months. They tell us that there were many dogs saved because of our raffle that might not have been.

Let me take a moment to say thank you to all the people on the team who sold tickets, sent emails and cheer lead to help get this done. An even bigger thank you to all the people who opened their hearts and their wallets to help save these wonderful dogs, many of whom were abandoned by their owners because they were old or sick or in the case of Nikko, blind. Life long pets who loved their people, abandoned because it was too hard or too expensive or just because...

Meet Nikko found wondering lost and alone. He walked right up to someone whom he did not know and could not see, and wagged his tail. THIS is what Akitas Rescue is about trust, and love. This dog would have ended his days in a shelter, alone, if not for the wonderful people in rescue. No one came to claim him, no one cared enough to put an ad in the paper or call the shelters looking for their lost, blind dog...no, he was dumped, left because he was getting old and blind and wasn't a fun puppy any more....Thanks to MARS, he will have a home and a warm bed and all the love he can stand.

Yup that was meant to pull on your heart strings and if it did not shame on you.

Well, about the drawing, I had a little help from the Akita Audit Committee - that would be Kat and Jazz - who cheer for all the orphans and send them love and woos.

Be sure to mix those names up good Mom!

Jazz checks to make sure that I am reading the name properly!

Kat supervises the drawing for the winner of the Electronics prizes,

Levity aside, dogs are coming into shelters and rescues at an alarming rate, more and more every day. We can't keep up, it takes money. It also takes volunteers, and foster homes, and boarding, and vets. So if you can find it in your heart or wallet to help out, even if only to go to a shelter and walk a homeless dog, then do it. Give a little, huh, will ya? The reward will be well worth it.

Foster a dog. Save a dog.

Please.

A Beautiful Tribute - Never Forget

2010-09-11T06:17:00.000-07:00

This video was played one time only - on the Anniversary of 9/11. Never forget.

Thank you Budweiser.

Wake up and meet the puppy

2010-08-27T10:58:00.001-07:00

OH MY GOD this is too funny!!!

Happy Day!!!

2010-08-10T10:29:00.000-07:00

Well, we are happy to say that Tally - now Wolfie - has found a new home!!! Here are a few photos of him during his short stay in our home.

Ya we spoiled him a little!

This is Wolfie day one, 60 pounds, so sad.

The Pack on the morning that Wolfie left - a sad and happy day for us all.

Wolfie with a few extra pounds!

I'm not afraid to say that I cried a lot when we left Wolfie at his new home...I will miss him greatly. But, he was happy and comfortable with his new Mom and I could not ask for anything better for him!

Have a wonderful life Wolfie, we love you!

Putting my money where my mouth is...

2010-07-29T11:44:00.000-07:00

This, is Tally.

Tally being here is me putting my money where my mouth is..I have been doing some fund raising for Akita rescue for the last 4 months...So far we have raised over $10000 for 2 separate Akita Rescues. I am very proud of this accomplishment...But when the rescue people asked if I could help with Tally, 12 years old his owner dead and stuck in an animal shelter, well first I thought no, that would be too hard

I then told my self to put up or shut, I can't be going around asking people to help with rescue, not just with money, but fostering, if I am not going to do it myself right.

So, Tally came yesterday. He's quite a boy for 12 years old. Very spry, smart and oh so demanding. The rescue folks say that I did not get lucky with Tally, that usually the oldies just kind of hang around and sleep. Well, that does not describe this dog at all...This poor dog is so stressed he can't stand to have me out of his sight. But unlucky? Nah, he's a good boy, and just wants to be loved and feel secure. Who can fault him for that?

2010-07-04T07:46:00.000-07:00

WELCOME TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA...

Please remember only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you...

JESUS CHRIST and the AMERICAN SOLDIER.

One died for your soul, the other for your freedom.

GOD BLESS THE USA

Mary Wild Gets A "Time Out"

2010-07-02T15:50:00.001-07:00

This was posted on an Akita Message Board by Jersey's owner:

They are finished she got 240 days in jail a suspended sentence so no jail time 2 years supervised probation and 80 hrs community service at the Jefferson county animal control and she has 30 days to submit an essay to the judge 750 words on how heat impacts dogs.

I could not breath - I was just stunned at such a travesty.

Jersey's owner is quite a woman, I bleed for her loss and I applaud her strength. Here is a missive that she wrote to the local joke of a news paper...

Dear Editor Post-Dispatch,

The lenient sentencing of Mary Wild by Associate Circuit Judge, Ray Dickhaner, is like that of a school child's punishment by her teacher -- complete with an essay to write! This "sentencing" of 2-year probation (detention), 8 hours of community service (that equals 10 hours per offense), and a 750 word essay, is an insult to all of us that are victims of Mary Wild's criminal neglect. I can just imagine Mary laughing on her way home from court yesterday morning, "I got away with it, Mom! HA!" Yes, Mary did get away with it. This pathetic excuse for justice in crimes against animals is why State of Missouri has earned its less-than stellar reputation across the rest of the country for fair treatment of animals. Keep it up, you are proceeding so well with it.

Hopefully the American Kennel Club will have more intestinal fortitude than Ray Dickhaner, and hand down an appropriate suspension. Then, despite Ray Dickhaner expressing that Mary Wild could go ahead and show dogs (as long as she had a note from her teacher), it simply will not be true. If the AKC does it's job, Mary Wild would not be able to handle dogs at AKC-sanctioned events, nor would she be able to breed AKC registered dogs for the duration of her suspension -- that trumps Ray Dickhaner.

My husband and I owned Jersey, the Akita that suffered and died as result of Mary Wild's criminal neglect. We are disgusted with this sentencing, as are the overwhelming majority of people the world over.

Monica Colvin

Gekko Akitas
www.gekkoakitas.homestead.com

It's Done

2010-06-24T16:35:00.000-07:00

After almost 9 months, Row's fate has been decided. The owner defaulted on everything, didn't pay the fines, never complied with ANY of the orders that could have sent Row home...He never visited the dog in all this time...He dragged it out and dragged it out, and finally the judge signed the order today, Row is now the property of the county. It is done.

I know that Row was a time bomb, there is no doubt that he would have done something worse - that he was not a dog who should be in public. But, the way this was handled, the way this piece of human garbage dragged this out is simply disgusting.

I hope you find peace over the bridge Row.

I hope that Jeff Scott finds no peace - ever.

Row's Time Is Almost Up

2010-06-11T13:40:00.000-07:00

Row Scott's owner failed to comply with the court requirements by the June 7 deadline. Row has been declared officially a dangerous dog. He has lost his right to appeal. We now have to wait for the official judgment and time frame set by judge for compliance again.

When I asked a Brevard county official if Row's time was up, they stated that "his days are certainly numbered - unless Scott comes up with a lot of money". We all know that that will never happen. Scott is flat broke and has legal issues beyond the issues he has created for Row.

I do not think that Scott ever really planned to comply with the court, and now Row has sat in the shelter since December 9, 2009, 7 months and 2 days - and for WHAT?!?!?! An innocent comment was made to me that really set me off... "for as long as he's been in there he's adjusted EXTREMELY well.. I'm glad for that much for Row..." Well, I should be glad at least that his time there was not horrible, but knowing how it will end, I can't help but feel frustrated.

There is no helping Row now, there really never was. As we have gone over before perhaps the best thing for him IS to pass over the bridge, but it should not have dragged so long, he should have at least gotten to see the sun one more time.

GUILTY!!!

2010-06-04T18:43:00.000-07:00

GUILTY ON ALL 8 COUNTS

Although I am ecstatic to see that Wild has been found guilty, I worry about the sentencing. We can only hope that on July 21 Mary Wild will learn that there ARE consequences for her actions.

We may want to dance in the street because the right and just verdict was handed down let's take a moment to think of the great loss, and of the owners who will see these deaths in their dreams for ever.

Here is the link to the STL article

Jersey's Day in Court

2010-06-03T15:32:00.001-07:00

Well, it has begun, Mary Wild will answer for the crimes she has committed.

The reporter in this story said that there will be no jury - the Missouri State Court website still says it is a jury trial, so maybe there was a change at the pretrial hearing. This may or may not be good with a jury there will be emotion involved, but there are people out there that will say "so, they're just dogs". With just a judge, he will interpret the law, and there will be no emotion, just the law.

Here is the channel 4 view before the trial started this morning:

Trial for Jefferson County woman charged in deaths of 7 dogs underway

I hope you are all watching.

Akita Fetch...

2010-06-03T06:40:00.000-07:00

NOT!

New Computer!!!

2010-06-03T06:20:00.000-07:00

Okay, I now have a computer that can read my stick from my camera, so here are a bunch of random flix of the kids that been waiting to be uploaded.

Enjoy!!!!

Nothing like a nice cool stream!

Walkies in the woods.

>>Yawn<<

What a face!

Nope, she's not spoiled, not at all.

So that's what the pool cover is REALLY for.

I can always tell when thunder is coming...I get a little friend under my desk.

The Queen and her court...Guess which one in the queen...

This made me cry

2010-05-31T03:31:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all the men and women who risk their lives every day to protect mine.

Happy Memorial Day

Update Row the Akita

2010-05-12T11:43:00.000-07:00

Here is Row, May 8, 2010, still waiting. He is blowing his coat and could use a good brushing - that will never happen. He will not feel a brush through his coat while he is at this "shelter".

Row has had his hearing continued to May 20, 2010. He still has not been outside. He still has had NO HUMAN CONTACT beyond a food bowl being put into his kennel.

His owner whined and complained that Row was going to have to be in a metal dungeon. Well what the @$#% is this? At least if he were taken home, his kennel could be outside so he could see the sun, yes, it would need a cover of some kind - but that cover could be made of the same chain link as the fence. He could see the sun, smell fresh air feel a little rain on his coat. He could be confined to his HOME inside a HOUSE with his people - if they gave a rat's ass.

But they don't, so my heart continues to bleed for this dog who is waiting, happy to see people when they pass his kennel...until the day that they stop.

May 20 - 8 more days.

Mary Wild Hearing

2010-05-10T11:54:00.000-07:00

I received this email from the state of Missouri today:

This email is to inform you of an upcoming court event involving the defendant MARY WILD and court case number 09JECR02236. A(n) Pre trial Conference has been scheduled for 5/24/2010 at 8:30 AM. This will take place in Jefferson, Division 11 Courtroom located at: 300 Main Street in Hillsboro, MO 63050.

I have not forgotten Jersey and the torture she went through as she lay dying in an overheated van during a heat wave in Mary Wild's yard. Mary slept in air conditioned comfort inside the house, while 8 dogs suffocated in that van with no water, no air...7 died. Jersey was one of them.

Mary Wild is showing again, people have seen her - breeders have paid her - have THEY forgotten?

Snow Play

2010-03-27T09:09:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I forgot to post this - this was about a month ago - the last big storm we had...guess the pups thought it was okay!

Row Waits

2010-03-10T05:15:00.000-08:00

Well, Row the Akita still resides in a Brevard County Florida Animal Shelter. He is still waiting for a court date. He is waiting for a visit from his "concerned and loving" owner.

The wheels of the court system grind slowly; mean while Row waits.

HSUS Fraud?

2010-03-02T11:16:00.000-08:00

Nationwide Poll: Seven Out of Ten Americans Wrongly Believe the Humane Society of the United States is a Pet-Shelter "Umbrella Group"

"Consumer Group Reminds Americans that Less than One Percent of Donations to HSUS Benefit Local Pet Shelters
WASHINGTON, March 2 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Seventy-one percent of Americans questioned in a new opinion poll wrongly believe the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is an "umbrella group" for America's local humane societies. Sixty-three percent incorrectly think their local "humane society" is affiliated with HSUS. And fifty-nine percent falsely believe HSUS "contributes most of its money" to local organizations that care for cats and dogs."

Click to read the entire article

Row Update

2010-02-21T05:15:00.000-08:00

As promised I have spoken to people at the shelter where Row is being held.

They say that he is nervous, but that is common among dogs that are in quarantine - Row sees only the feeder and kennel cleaner during the day - the public is kept away from that part of the shelter. They have 7 dogs there right now. I am told that he is given treats but has no interest in toys.

The person I spoke to works 6 days a week and said that to her knowledge, Mr Scott has not been to visit the dog. Neither has she heard of any incident that the dog has shown aggression towards any handlers. That is not to say that Row is not a dangerous dog, I am just reporting the facts.

I have a little more info about his kennel run. The run seen in the picture is called the front run, he has an additional run behind the door in the back which is larger and he is allowed to move between the two. However, neither run goes outside. Row has not seen the sun since the day he was brought to the shelter. I am also told that he is moved from one run to the other for kennel cleaning - I will find out exactly how that is accomplished once I have spoken to his kennel cleaner. I asked if the kennel was just hosed and was told they only do that of the dog shows aggression to handlers - so far Row has not.

He has a Kuranda bed which is up off the floor and a quilt to sleep on. He is eating and drinking okay, has not lost weight that anyone has noticed.

I am a little dubious about what I was told given the history of this shelter, I don't know, I can't go there to see for myself. The person I spoke with sounded very sincere and was careful to state that she could not discuss the "case" but she seemed okay discussing the dog. If nothing else the spotlight we are putting on Brevard County and the shelter, because of Row, may improve the standard of care that other animals receive now and in the future. At least that will be one good thing to come out of this...Did I really just say that, gad, there is nothing good coming from this nothing good at all...There is no silver lining.

Free-Row.Com Gone!

2010-02-08T11:29:00.000-08:00

Okay, here's what happens now when you go to Free-Row.com. So, Mr Scott has been put out of "business", ya yippee skippee - WHAT HAPPENED TO THE DOG!?!?!?!?

Suspended Due to Non-Payment
This website has been suspended due to lack of payment for the website, hosting, internet marketing, and promotional materials for the Free Row Scott campaign from the owner of this site, Mr Billy Jo Scott.

He can be contacted at one of the following numbers: 321-268-2413 OR 321-759-8899

The site will be restored upon payment.
For questions or concerns email contact@swtwebdesign.com.

Okay, I get that this guy is shady, but what happened to the dog? What IS happening to Row? Dangerous he may be but is he still sitting waiting in that kennel?

There's no happy ending here, not for Row and certainly not for the Akita breed...

Duped

2010-02-04T10:12:00.001-08:00

Yup I've been duped along with a lot of other well meaning Akita lovers.

Row Scott, I am shaking my head for a number of reasons.

Reason one, we were all duped into believing that this was just a misunderstood dog who was in the wrong place at the wrong time. This is not so.

Reason two, people lying for financial gain and to cover their collective a$$es.

Last reason, breeders who irresponsibly breed dogs with questionable temperaments. Not by accident, but with full knowledge that full and part siblings from other litters are dangerously aggressive.

There will be a story in the next issue of The Dog Press that will make all this clear. I did not write the article, but I know that it is based on fact, I have confirmed much of what is written as fact and trust this writer to be telling NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH.

Long and short is that Row has been misused and abused into being the dog that he is. He was breed by someone who knew the potential for Row to be an aggressive dangerous dog and set into motion this terrible tableau. Row is now, sadly, everything that Akita breeders are trying to stop. His story, his owners, past and present, have done much to further damage not only the image of this great and regal breed. They have damaged the breed itself by putting dogs out there that should not have been breed at all, by selling them to people who would take advantage of these bad genes and create more of the same. Shame.

I know my breed, I know what they are and what they can be. I know that Akitas are NOT for everyone. They are not big teddy bears, they are strong powerful animals with a will of their own. You either come to terms with that and be responsible; train them, be their leader, allow no abhorrent behaviour - or you buy a lab.

My heart aches for Row, I have shed a few tears for him because truly he cannot help what he is. He did not choose the temperaments of his parents, he did not choose the irresponsible breeder who disregarded history to make a buck. I care what happens to Row, I really do. But now, I am looking at it from a different perspective. I am looking at Row in terms of the damage he can do to the breed.

Read the article - it is passionate, written by a fellow breeder who is outraged and distraught by this entire incident. And, it is true.

I'm Jazz...Who the Heck Are You?

2010-01-19T10:43:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Jazz!!!

2 years old today.

Update: Row Gets to Go Home!

2010-01-13T07:43:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone. Here is a further update about Row. A commentor on his blog was able to attend the hearing and has posted a report in the comments section. I have reprinted below.

Long and short, Row will be able to go home. He will be neutered, not SUCH a bad thing - better than a trip over the Rainbow Bridge. He is to be suitably confined - don't know what that really means but I will find out and post.

In a horrific situation like this the outcome - though perhaps not entirely fair (two sides to every story, read below) - could have been worse and fatal for Row.

I still hold that the situation could have been avoided, first by Row's owner, and second by the alleged victims - come on folks use your head! I think the worst offender here was not Mr Scott, nor the lady victim, but the man that was with her. HE attacked Row by his own admission, Row didn't bite him now did he.

We'll really never know, but at least Row will go home and live.

Post to Free-Row.com:

Betty Ann January 12th, 2010 at 18:35
Here is the truth concerning Brevard County vs Row (Scott)
I attended a hearing to determine if the Akita Row (Scott) could be declared a dangerous dog.
On December 9, 2009 there was an encounter between the dog, Row (Ronin), and an elderly couple. Row’s owner was visiting his ex-wife’s house and the dog was tethered with a plastic covered steel cable to a tree in the front yard.The elderly couple approached the house and clearly saw the dog in the yard.The dog barked at the couple but they took no action to avoid the dog and continued forward. The law states that people have every right to remain on the sidewalk. This was a quiet residential street so the ability to cross the street or walk in the street was not limited by traffic. It is completely legal for the couple to remain on the sidewalk and to take no evasive action to avoid the dog.
Unfortunately for Row, his tether was long enough for him to reach the sidewalk. Row was able to leave the property if only by a few feet. He was able to reach the couple and he jumped up on them. At this point testimony and evidence diverge and statements are contradictory. The man states that he punched the dog and grabbed its collar and hit the dog with “the other end of the leash” when it jumped up on the woman who stated that she was behind the man. The woman states that she stumbled backward into the street and injured her arm. She does not believe she was bitten. When the dog jumped up he was face to face with the woman. The only damage shown at the hearing was a photo of the woman’s right arm showing a cut or scrape at the elbow. She refused to allow her medical information to be released to the hearing so there is only one photo taken 7 days after the event available to the hearing committee.
The committee determined that Row did meet the minimum requirement to be declared a dangerous dog because he was able to approach these people on public land and the woman had an injury as a result. It was determined that there was no evidence to support a bite. There were no deep bruises no puncture no opposing bite marks just scratches. It could not be determined if the marks on the woman’s arm were from the fall or from the dog’s feet.Remember she claimed he was looking into her face not clamped onto her arm.
According to law, Row’s owner will have to neuter the dog and keep him in suitable confinement. The dog will be returned to the owner. The owner has the right to appeal.
The decision to declare Row a dangerous dog was made by a committee of 2 volunteers. It was a unanimous decision. In conversations post-hearing it was agreed that Row was not a dangerous or aggressive dog but he had committed an act that met the minimum requirements of the law by leaving the property and there was injury involved.
Row will be allowed to return home and the owner will be required to bring the dog’s accommodations up to what is required by county law.
Now let’s do the math. The tether was 19.5 feet long. The actual tether was displayed at the hearing.
Row’s tether was high up on the limb of a very large oak tree with thick limbs. Lets assume the tree limb is 1 1/5 feet thick based on the photo of the tree. If tree is 7 feet from the sidewalk and the tether was 7 feet up from the ground, we now have all tree sides of the triangle.
If a is Upright side of triangle 7 feet
If b is Horizontal side of triangle 7 feet
Formula for diagonal side c is
a squared + b squared = c squared
so the length of c is square root of c
that value is 9.8995 feet
How much tether was needed to encircle the tree limb?
That value is 3.14159 times the thickness of the limb
3.14159 times 1.5 feet = 4.7124 feet
9.8995 feet plus 4.7124 feet = 14.61 feet
19.5 feet total length of tether minus 14.61 feet = 4.89 feet
If sidewalk is 3 feet wide then the dog can get 1.89 feet past the sidewalk.There is a wide area of grass between the sidewalk and the street. I’m guessing another 7 to 8 feet.
So why didn’t these people just step over into the quiet residential street and save us all a lot of grief? They clearly saw the dog. What is wrong with this picture?
Betty AnnWinter Springs FL

Row Scott Update: It Breaks My Heart

2010-01-11T11:35:00.000-08:00

It breaks my heart to report that Row has indeed been declared a dangerous dog and will likely suffer the most horrible consequence. It pains me even more to say that perhaps, the circumstances were not as we thought. There are indeed two sides to every story - and the truth lies someplace in between.

I am not above admitting that I may have been wrong in this case. I may have fallen into the knee jerk reaction of any dog owner - that of defending the animal (and by default it's owner) against what seemed like false accusations.

Do we, any of us know what the real story is? No we do not, I do not. Apparently we were not given the entire picture by the owner on Row's website. There are two sides to every story, the truth lies someplace in between. I cannot blame him, I love my dogs and would be devastated if I were facing the eminent loss of my companion. Even though my head would tell me that Row may have a problem, my heart would be as blind as justice. I hold no fault to Mr Scott for defending Row. I hold him at fault for not protecting this animal in the first place, for not understanding his responsibility to KEEP ROW OUT OF HARM"S WAY.

We will never truly know if Row was acting aggressively or speaking in the way all Akita owners find dear. Row should not have been in the situation, he should not have been tied unattended, it was a mistake, we all make them. A teaching moment, yes, but what is taught, nothing but pain and sadness.

That all being said my heart goes out to Row's owner, I am sure he will forever remember Row and the part he played in Row's life. I hope that he will continue to defend Row and will be successful in bringing him home and getting him the help and training he needs. But, more so my heart goes out to Row, who at one point in his life rode high as a champion.

It is my hope dear Row that you do not go to the bridge, but if you do, run free and happy.

Below is the letter I received from Brevard County regarding Row's case as well as a single photo of the victim's injury. I do not profess to know if this is a bite or not judge for yourself, but does it matter?

Ms. Lynch,

A brief summary of the findings of the Council on the events of that day are as follows;

The victim and her husband were walking down a public sidewalk towards Mr. Scott's house, Mr. Scott had Row aka Ronin tied out to a tree limb of a tree approximately 6 to 7 feet from the sidewalk on a cable that measured 19' 9" long (20 ft cable that had kinks in it from usage). The Council found that the based on the length of the tether, the distances from the tree to the sidewalk that Row was able to at least reach the sidewalk and possibly as far as into the public street. Mr. Scott had given the actual cable used to tie Row out with and it was shown to the Council during the meeting. Photographs of the sidewalk clearly showed paw prints as well as the drag marks made by the victim as she was scrambling to get away from the dog. They did find that the injuries sustained by the victim were made by Row and not caused by "falling" by this I mean her contact with the ground or roadway caused the injuries she had to her right arm/elbow.

The Basis for the Determination of the Council stated that they found that Row aka Ronin did, without provocation, chase or approach a person on a public sidewalk in an aggressive, menacing fashion and apparent attitude of attack and caused injury to a human.

At this point Mr. Scott has 10 business days in which to appeal the council's decision to the County Court or 14 days in which to come into full compliance with the provisions set forth by County ordinance, his third option would be to sign ownership of the dog to the County.

I’ve also attached one of the pictures of the injury sustained by the victim. I also believe the Mr. Scott’s page fails to mention that Ronin had also bit his niece the day prior.

I hope this answers your question.

Sincerely,

Kim Strob

Please go sign to save Row

2010-01-05T13:50:00.000-08:00

PLEASE GO TO THIS SITE RIGHT NOW AND SIGN PETITION TO SAVE ROW FROM AN UNDESERVED DEATH!

WWW.FREE-ROW.COM

“Hello, My name is Row

I am a 3-year-old Akita, who was adopted by my new owner in March 2009. I’m a competitive dog, which participated in many dog shows, both National and International, and I am proud to say I have won many ribbons and awards for my excellent showmanship.

I am a very vocal dog and enjoy singing and talking to myself. Unfortunately, my deep voice and physique have a tendency to scare people who have not met me.

I am currently being held at the Brevard County Animal Shelter, and just want to go home. I am here because the Animal Service and Enforcement Department thinks I am “dangerous”, and my feelings are extremely hurt. They don't know me like everyone else does.

On December 9th 2009, I was visiting my granddad and hanging out in his front yard. He has a special spot next to a tree that I love. It’s special spot because I can watch the neighborhood and relax. After a a while, I noticed some neighbors were walking by and stopped at our house. I wanted to say hello and find out what they wanted. However, as I approached the elderly couple, the woman became frightened. I didn’t want her to be scared, so I decided to talk to her. Unfortunately, as I spoke, she jumped back, lost her balance, and fell. I felt really bad and didn’t know what to do. When her husband helped her up I noticed she had bruises and scrapes. I did not mean to scare her!

After this, I was taken away from my family. I was all alone for Christmas and New Years. I am not sure what my outcome is going to be. ...

I promise! I never touched the couple or caused any harm. I just wanted to say Hi. Unfortunately for me, since the neighbor fell and hurt herself, I’m being blamed for her injuries.

I love my family and miss them very much and I just want to go home. Please help me!”

PLEASE PLEASE show your support for this misunderstood dog.

Snow Pups!

2010-01-04T11:13:00.000-08:00

Not the best photos in the world but hey it was SNOWING!!!!!

"Hachi Ko" the movie - a problem for the breed?

2009-12-16T13:58:00.000-08:00

I nicked this article/mission off another site (which I now can't find). Having said that I so totally agree - with SOME of what she says. This movie is going to have people running out in DROVES to acquire a loyal and noble Akita, like the nice doggie in the movie. This will only serve to send even more Akita's into the already over flowing rescues and shelters nationwide. Please spread the word. AKITAS ARE NOT FOR EVERYONE!!!!.

The story of Hachi Ko, though amazing and totally understandable among Akita owners, will send the wrong message - everyone is going to want an Akita, every pet shop is going to be over flowing with sweet (puppy mill) Akita puppies. And what's going to happen when those sweet lovely puppies grow up and don't magically turn into Hachi Ko of movie fame - right they'll be dumped, abandoned and likely killed.

The article below has some very good ideas, although I do not agree that this is a forum to promote the breed, however it is a place to start to make people understand that dogs are not just born loyal and obedient. The owner is key in how the dog turns out.

As a matter of fact I don't agree with much about this article, it worries me. On one hand I agree people need education, but truely if I go stand out front with my beautiful well trained Akitas, people will naturally think that ALL Akitas are like mine - or actually are born like mine. Now the fact is they can be - I have put substantial time and effort into these wonderful beings that I share my life with. They are a major committment in my life.

No, I don't think it is a time to promote Akitas to the impulse dog buying public. And worse - rescue Akitas to people who know nothing of the breed. What is she thinking? To rescue an Akita is a unique and wondeful thing, but it is not for just anyone. YOU MUST KNOW THE BREED to be happy with an Akita in your home! You can't just toss them out in the yard and expect them to train themselves. No, there is a commitment here that must be made, no matter what the breed.

Nope, I don't like it at all. This movie is going to cause SUCH problems for this magnificent breed. Sigh.

So read on but know that I am printing this because I disagree with a lot of what is said here although there is alot I do agree with as well - yes educate, but don't promote the breed. You're well trained Akita could spawn many untrained and homeless Akitas purely by being the fabulous pets that YOUR committment has helped them to be.

"Your mission, should you chose to accept it, is to help educate our movie going public. Your deadline for the mission is December 18th. Your countdown begins now. While this current mission is targeting those who may be interested in a specific breed, it benefits anyone considering a dog. How? Because it helps to educate people about the need for breed research BEFORE getting a dog "just like the one they saw" in a movie. This in turn hopefully helps cut down on the amount of mismatched dogs to owners. Not every breed of dog is right for every home after all. What might be the best match for you may be a nightmare for your best friend and vice versa.

The steps for this mission are simple.

1) Go to this website http://www.akitaclub.org/ and download and print a copy of the file "Is the Akita the right dog for you?"

2) Take the handout to your local Staples store and make a bajillion copies.

3) Take the bajillioon copies to your local movie theaters on December 17th and ask if they will share them with every ticket buyer to the movie "Hachi".

4) If you have a blog please consider passing this information on. All agents need to be activated for this one my friends.

The advanced agents, and you know who you are, may even stay to pass out the handouts personally or set up a booth at the theater (with permission of course) showing off their own well trained akita or shiba. (shibas are also featured in the movie as they used some of them in place of the akita as a puppy. Here is a link to "Is the Shiba for you" to add to the flip side of your handout: http://www.northeastshibarescue.com/right.html ) You can even go to your areas Akita rescue website and print off a list of Akitas needing homes to add to a poster.

A "dogs in movies" set up with other breed information for those who are extra creative to leave at the theater is also an idea. This isn't the first breed this has happened to, nor will it be the last. It is also a great opportunity to reach alot of people about positive training for trainers who want to participate with their own trained dogs. Have a pile of handouts on the akita/shiba and another on positive training. The ones we can't reach with the breed info will certainly need the training info later.

The mission is an important one. It may be met with resistance. A back up plan my be required. Consider recruiting your local pet supply stores. They may agree to passing out handouts if your theater won't participate or be willing to host a breed education table. Posters are also welcome in the fight. Ask the local theater for copies of the movie poster, take it for display to your local pet supply store, and add the akita handout. Or your local shelter would like to be involved. It never hurts to ask.

Check out the Hachi movie trailer here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FaS37E3gKOU

I want to thank all the DEAR members (dog education action responders) for their participation in this mission. (Psst - that's you dear reader) I look forward to all feedback. Got any other ideas to help us in this endeavor? Share them with me in the comments section.

(The photo is of the real Hachi Ko, the akita the movie is based on. Originally a Japanese story.) "

Birthday Girl

2009-12-16T11:01:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Kat!

3 years old today.

Christams Has Gone to the Dogs

2009-12-14T08:44:00.001-08:00

Okay they are not my dogs but this is still TOO funny!

Keep The Pressure On ***Updated

2009-11-24T06:24:00.000-08:00

Let's all fight for justice for Jersey and the other dogs killed by handler Mary Wild. Ms. Wild's jury trial has been scheduled for June 3, 2010. Nearly a year to the date of her careless act.

Let's keep the pressure on and keep emailing and sending letters to the Jefferson County Prosecutor. Let him know we have NOT forgotten, and will NOT forget what happened in that van.

I will try to keep track of the goings on over the next 7 months, if there are any changes of key parties in the case I will post any new addresses that I can find.

**Original Post with articles and links to addresses.

**Names and addresses:

Forrest K. Wegge
Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney
Jefferson County Courthouse
300 Main Street; hillsboro, Mo 63050
ph: 636-797-5321; fax: 636-797-5065
email: fwegge@jeffcomo.org
SOURCE: www.jeffcomo.org/Contactus.aspx

Public Administrator
Jefferson County Courthouse
300 Main Street; hillsboro, Mo 63050
ph: 636-797-5385; fax: 636-797-6043
email: bking@jeffcomo.org Circuit Clerk
Jefferson County Courthouse
300 Main Street
hillsboro, Mo 63050
ph: 636-797-5443; fax: 636-797-5073
email: howard.Wagner@courts.mo.gov

Sheriff Oliver "Glenn" Boyer
Justice Center, 400 Main Street
hillsboro, Mo 63050
ph: 636-797-5000; fax: 636-797-6451
email: GBoyer@jeffcomo.org
SOURCE: www.jcsd.org/e- mail.htm

Time to Brag!

2009-11-12T10:42:00.000-08:00

Mystik Own'n The Katwalk - Certified Therapy Dog

Yup, she did it! My sweet little girl passed her certification as a Therapy Dog. I think she was a shoe in - I mean the Evaulator and her assistant kept calling her Cuddle Bug...need I say more!

Like Father Like Son

2009-11-11T08:29:00.001-08:00

This is Jazz's Dad, CH. Kuroi Kao No Doubt (Noble) at the Nationals the last week of October - gee doesn't Jazz look like his Dad?!?!?!

Noble

Jazz

Murderer Handler Mary Wild Update

2009-11-03T12:13:00.000-08:00

Well Jersey fails to get her day in court again, a lot of nothing has gone on with Mary Wild's case. Long and short she has had 2 continuances and is now scheduled for a criminal setting for November 24 - ya that's right, 2 days before Thanksgiving. IF it goes to trial that day do you think the jury is gonna spend a lot of time thinking about the case? My guess - and so far I have been right - is that they will try to continue at least once more until after the Holidays.

Wild has a very slick attorney, he is pushing the limit of the law to the best advantage for Wild and the worst for the dog community. Shame shame shame. I take some little solice in the knowledge that he is charging her HUGE fees that will, if the murder of the dogs has not already, leave a very deep and lasting impression on her.

The Dog Press is following the case as well. They have faith in Forrest Wegge, Jefferson County’s Prosecuting Attorney. I would like to believe that he will keep his resolve to see justice done.

Currently Jersey still stands as the number 8 Akita in the country - a tribute to what a wonderful example of the breed she really was.

Original Post

Skunked!

2009-11-02T12:25:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that I didn't post these pictures yet!!!

You know that feeling that you get when things are TOO quiet? You kind get this feeling that someone somewhere is up to no good. Well, that was the case in September when I went out to call the dogs - who hadn't been come to the door for their usual midmorning cookie...Hmm, no body came. I called again and when I went out side Jazz did a quick "fly by" at about 40 miles an hour - Well, that was all it took to figure out what the little beasites had been up to.

It was kind of like Pig Pen from Charlie Brown - the smell was just wafting off of him in an almost visable cloud! Seems they chased or corner a skunk under my shed - which by the way still stinks. Well, they both caught it smack in the kisser! Jazz still has eau de Skunk coming out when he breaths - ya that went over well with the Judge at his last show.

Kat is not too pleased with her vinegar/peroxide/dish soap facial...

PFFT...yuck!

...umb, I got sumbthig ib my dose...

Heh - catch me if you can!

All clean - okay still a little stinky....

All clean and no stinky - I'm a girl you know, we smell better!

Ya, all clean and right back under the shed they go! Geez.

The aftermath!

Jazz in the Ring

2009-10-18T08:23:00.000-07:00

Just a quickie of Jazz and Handler Gail Maki in the ring at the Big E in Springfield, October 17. No wins, but nice behaviour and movement.

Yes, he was a little over stretched but this was Gail's first class with him.

Hiding a Treat

2009-09-30T11:56:00.001-07:00

So M & I are always arguing about what Jazz will eat and won't eat...M thinks he'll eat anything (HAHAHAHAHAHAHA - I am laughing so hard I may pee) and I am constantly saying "he won't eat that." Needless to say M usually tries it anyway and usually I end up scraping pizza crust or ham (ya, the dog doesn't like ham geesh)or some other weirdness out of the rug an hour later.

No fault to M though, I mean Jazz is a dog and dogs eat anything right?!?!?!?! Right?!?!?!?!

Take a look at the following video and you'll see why I end up scrapping stuff off the rug!

Goin' for a ride

2009-09-11T06:24:00.000-07:00

Okay so, I get home from grocery shopping and unload the car - I guess I forgot to close the truck. When I came out later and asked the dogs if they wanted a ride well as you can see Jazz was not put off but the fact that the doors weren't open yet....

It's Just Too Silly!

2009-08-14T08:44:00.000-07:00

These two are just a riot, I've never seen two dogs that loved each other like they do!

Wild Waives Formal Arraignment

2009-08-13T13:51:00.000-07:00

In searching public records for Jefferson County Court I have found that Mary Wild has waived formal arraignment, she is scheduled in a "criminal setting" for September 15 at 9AM. Keep the pressure on for no plea bargain. Below is the public record; out of self preservation, I have blocked her case number. Again, if you are concerned about this you can search public records and find it yourself.

Here are a few related videos I have come across. The first was early on before much of the real truth was known, but you tell me...how did she open those van windows? They DON'T OPEN!!!

www.kplr

Barb Cole talks about the Arnold show dogs heat death

I know I am obsessing about this, I just can't help it. I AM OUTRAGED! That this happened makes me cry, it steals the breath from my lungs. I look at my own dogs and think "what if it was one of them?".

UKC CH Kuroi Kao All That Jazz

2009-08-13T10:51:00.000-07:00

Hurray for Jazz! He is now offically a CHAMPION, but it has not gone to his head!

The last weekend in July, we packed up the truck and made the drive to Westfield for Jazz's first show in about 7 months. We've been working so hard to get him into fine fettle for this. Stuffing him up with food (as much as we can, him being a VERY picky eater) to get some bulk onto my skinny boy. Classes, classes, classes. Baths - blah, he was not pleased, the blower, which he has decided is okay. Toes trimmed and teeth brushed. Our boy fairly sparkled!!!

Kat has done her job of running and wrestling and lots of play to get Jazzy into shape. He's her little incredible hulk!

Now all we needed was for him to show his million dollar smile in the ring! Jazz would much prefer to wear an eye patch and be a junk yard dog, dirty and grimmy and oh to find some poop to roll in. Heaven!

We packed tents and fans and cooler and food and crates, what a traveling road show! How people do this every weekend I will never know! The ride was long and ended with Jazzy being a little sick,oh-oh. Kat thought it was quite a lark.

Tent raised, cooler cooled, crates assembled, and fan blasting, we were ready for the day. Of course during all this there were dogs, dogs everywhere. It didn't take long with the blazing heat and humidity, to realize it might not have been the best idea I have ever had to start him off at an outdoor, 4 show, 2 day affair. Thank gawd for box fans and ice!

We did alot of walking the grounds to get Jazz to relax, and he did a pretty good job settling down. The heat though, that nearly got the better of not only him but me. I was freakin' melting. My dress stuck to me like fly paper and my stockings - let me tell you men out there you got it easy. The stockings - required to keep people from being blinded by the solar glare white of my legs - were suffocating, like wrapping myself in cling wrap, but tighter. By the time our class rolled around it was nearly noon and I was completely soaked. Jazz, on the other hand, content in front of his fan with a giant open mouthed pant going, was ready.

I was lucky enough to have my handling trainer (who was a multiple group winner with her Dobe Omar) at the show, so I was MUCH more prepared this time around than our last time in the ring. And Jazz, he knew his stuff. He did the things he needed to do and gave the Judge his winning smile and win he did - Group 1 first thing! Not bad for a former skinny 19 month old who, 3 months ago had a butt so high, you could have used it for a ski jump!

It was not the most fun I have ever had, and I think Jazz might second that! He worked hard and was the text book Akita, which won him 3 group placements in 4 shows and one Group win.

Long hot sweaty story short Jazz earned ALL his points and finished the weekend a CHAMPION.

Next show will be in air conditioned comfort little guy I promise!!!

Mine Mine Mine

2009-08-06T11:31:00.000-07:00

Mine, no it's mine, no it's mine, no it's mine...

Tragic Loss - Update 2

2009-08-01T04:57:00.001-07:00

I have been out of touch with my friend and Kat's breeder Cindy of Mystik Akitas as her computer and email have been down for several weeks. So, I have only just learned of the tragic death of Jersey, the number 1 Akita bitch and number 4 Akita in the country, at the hands of Murderer Handler Mary Wild, who left Jersey and 7 other show dogs in a van over night in 100 plus degree heat to die a horrible death. Cindy bred this magnificent and gentle girl. My heart and prayers go to Cindy, Jersey's owners at Gekko Akitas, and to the 6 other owners who lost their beloved dogs to this killer. There can be no way to understand how or why this could happen. There can be no forgiveness for the selfishness and irresponsiblity that caused this horrific loss.

I firmly believe that owning an animal is just as heavy with responsibility as having a child, ya ya, you think I am nuts. Consider this; this being looks to you for EVERYTHING in it's life, from food and water, to love, health care, companionship, and even something as simple as procreation is at the whim of the owner. These beings cannot, by virtue of being our "pets", do for themselves. At least a child can communicate or run away from danger. Dogs sit in their kennels and wait for us to do as we will with them.

There are those who will say of this tragedy, "at least there is a lesson learned" or something equally as inane. There is no lesson here, there is NOTHING gained by this, nothing. What can we learn from the selfish and irresponsible act of someone who would put their own comfort above that of these great and gentle beings who trusted her. The person who left 8 magnificant animals to die in a closed van in the heat of the summer sun while she slumbered only a few steps away in her bed in air conditioned comfort.

The AKC has said that they will consider suspending Mary Wild's liscence pending results of the hearing and trial. Suspending - are you kidding me? And why wait, regardless of the outcome of this trial these animals died under her care - or lack there of. There is no accident here. She was steps away, STEPS away. They died in her driveway waiting for her to come rescue them, for her to care for just a moment about something other than herself. She should be banned for life from ANY animal event or even the right to own one.

Mary Wild faces 8 years in prison for the eight lives she snuffed out. It is not enough, but it is the law. Do you suppose that if convicted and imprisoned, her captors will forget to feed her, water her, cool the air which she will breath everyday? One can only hope.

Jersey

Dog Handler Mary Wild Charged

AKC Statement

Mary Wild Kills 8 Dogs

STL article

The Southern Article

Dog Forum

** to those of you with RSS feed I'm sorry for the repeated posts I am just so over whelmed with anger that my typing has gone to heck as well as my spelling.

**UPDATE This article lists names, phone numbers, street and email addresses which you can contact to ask the prosecutor NOT to accept a plea bargain from Mary Wild.

***UPDATE 2:
Jeannie & Mary Wild's Webpage

Wild Wind Malamutes

Which one of her dogs do you suppose she killed?

Appetite Stimulant

2009-07-21T07:38:00.000-07:00

So, I've been pretty worried about Jazz and his lack of appetite for quite some time now. He just didn't seem to like anything, canned food,raw food, people food, you name it we tried it. I've even gone so far as to buy a suppliment to get him to eat and put weight on - ya that worked real well. He snorted and flipped his dish over - that was the end of that!

I mean his health has been okay, he was just so SKINNY. I just would like him to be - well - poofier.

Well, the problem seems to have been solved with a little help from a family member...Take a look at this...

Yup, that's Miss Penny sharing dinner with the "Big Scary Akita".

One day when Jazz wouldn't eat his food I decided to give penny a piece and just took out and placed it next to his dish for her to eat...the rest is history। Now, when it's dinner time we call Jazz AND Penny and he just eats his food no problem - of course she gets a few pieces as payment!

It's really a strange dynamic, but it works. I wouldn't recommend this solution to people though...I mean normally cats and Akitas, big no-no. Not in this case for sure. Penny and Jazz seem to be pals.

Bug Catcher - Not!

2009-07-20T10:25:00.000-07:00

Ya, more stupid dog videos...

Jazz had his first experience with the dreaded deer fly. M makes a comment about Jazz not being Niki here. Well, Niki was a bug catcher extraordinaire! She could catch a bee right out of the air, chew it up and swollow with out getting stung. Sigh, we miss her still.

Cool Cat

2009-07-13T08:34:00.000-07:00

Okay, there is NO one as cool as our cat Penny - 180+ pounds of fang box layin' around the deck and she just saunters through like she owns the joint...Um, well, actually she does!

Akita Play

2009-07-10T08:43:00.000-07:00

Well, again it has been too long since I have posted about the kids. No excuse just lazy! It's been raining for like 40 days and 40 nights here - no really it has! Not exactly ideal weather for running outside to snap a few flicks of the pups.

The sun has finally come out though and I get to use my brandy new birthday present! M has gotten sick of hearing me say "oh you shoulda seen this" or "oh, you missed that" so, he bought me a neatest little video camera for my birthday (July 3 if anyone wants to send a belated gift, I will humbly accept...)Now, like everyone else on the planet we already have a video camera - but it's this kinda big klunky thing which doesn't fit in my pocket or hand bag like my new one. And it's not red - my new one is red and cute, really cute!

Of course I've filmed some really stupid stuff that no one in their right mind would be interested in watching - including me - I hope that wears off after a while cause people are starting to roll their eyes when I bring it out!

So, here's a first attempt with my new toy of Kat and Jazz at "play".

**This really is play - no animals were harmed in the making of this video - HONEST!!!

Hello?

2009-04-02T11:49:00.000-07:00

Okay, it's been forever since I have posted about the kids. Well, lots has been going on and lots has not! Jazzy is on hiatus from the ring - cause - well - he looks CRAPPY!! Poor little guy has finaly blown his puppy coat and is looking a little bald! He looks a little like a bobble head doll right now so the ring will have to wait until things come back together. tempermentally he is really coming into his own. Quite the little gentleman now, still has his moments but all in all he's turning into a very nice boy.

Katsy is of course looking marvelous inspite of blowing her coat now - she's SUCH a super star! She's the little princess of obedience class - okay at 92 pounds the BIG princess of the class. She's still a lap dog at heart though - just have a look...

Let it snow Let it snow....

2009-01-02T12:25:00.000-08:00

Ice Storm

2008-12-19T07:55:00.000-08:00

This has been the absolute worst week I can remember in - well - FOREVER!!!! That is for us humans, Jazz and Kat have had a pretty good time. We had the worst ice storm the state has seen in like a bazillion years and of course we lost power. The dogs thought this was just a big adventure, camping out in a COLD house in the living room infront of the fireplace. 8 Days folks count um - 8 freakin' days.

Problem was that the storm took out not only our power but lots of our trees and with them many sections of the fence. So every trip outside required and escort until M's sons D & D came and saved the day repairing the fence and helping to pick up fire wood.

Jazzy and Kat didn't seem to mind too much although they are acting a little strange - Kat's not a big fan of change and let me tell there were lots of changes while we tried to stave off the cold. It was a depressing and uncomfortable week to say the least and I think that it has taken a toll on all of us.

Bouncing Back

2008-11-30T07:33:00.000-08:00

Well, Jazzy went to his first show since being so sick - he was down about 6 pounds but still looked good - although I like him pudgier!

This was Jazz's first 2 day show and believe me we had a harrowing start. First we decided to wait until the day of to bathe him - got myself a brandy new blower so I figured I could dry him and he would still be nice and fluffy. Ya, well, talk about a STUPID idea! The poor dog's head almost came off. Scared the livin' crap right out of him! So much for a blower. So, we had to let him air dry, which entailed lots of rubbing with a towel and he had to stay in the house as it was pretty cold. Thank God his class wasn't until 2!

I had to go alone to day 1 as M was busy, so off we went just me and the wee bunchy boy. I had planned to get there about an hour early and we arrived just as planned - but it wasn't enough!!!

With the whole being sick for 2 weeks and the blower debackle Jazz could have used alot more time to settle down.

Jazz was VERY fidgity in the ring, just wanted to play with the judge and see what she was doing - she commented that he was "very nosy" - an understatement to be sure! His around was nice though and movement was nice so I couldn't complain too much. As it was he won his age group and best puppy but he was the only puppy his age so that wasn't really a win.

Day 2 - Another story altogether! M & Kat joined us and I think it helped. He was poised, spritely; just a real joy. He stood like a perfect gentleman for the judge and his around was just superb - all flashy and jaunty. Self stacked like a pro - who are you and what have you done with my dog!?!?!?! End result? Won his age group (again no competition) and won Winner's Dog against the person that beat us the day before.

The Judge from the day before stopped by and watched, she was pleased to see him come good and said there would be no problem finishing him. She said he moved very well and was just SO friendly, and that she loved his feet - just perfect.

The photo is from day one - you can see neither one of us is too happy! No photo was taken on the winning day two - it was my turn to be sick and I just could not wait around for 45 boxers to be judged before getting in line for a photo. My bad I know, but I was home and we were both asleep long before the boxer judging would have been finished.

In Sickness and...

2008-11-22T13:29:00.000-08:00

Wow, did my babies ever get sick this week! Even with all their shots up to date. The concensus is that they got something at Jazz's last show - Kat was there as moral support and she did her job well!!! I guess we shouldn't have let them roll around on that germy rug!!!

Kat had a short bout of Kennal cough, but poor Jazz came down with a serious case of the snots - Canine Flu. Poor little guy didn't want to eat - not that he's a chow hound in the first place let me tell you! Ya know how you're always telling your (hypothetical) three year old to wipe his snotty nose? Well, try that with a 10 month old puppy! The dog was booger factory - I still don't know where he kept it all. It has really been a tough go for him, he lost weight and energy and with me trying to keep him in, well he had a BAD week. I'm told he really didn't have too bad a case, but try telling him that!

Kat was not too sick really, she just wasn't too happy about liquid cough mecidine, although she did create some fantastic pink modern art on my kitchen walls! Poor M had a really tough try at getting the meds in her - um so we changed to pills, alot less messy.

Everybody is finally feeling better although we'll skip the show this weekend - no sense spreading more germs.

Lest We Forget

2008-11-11T13:29:00.001-08:00

Thank you for my life and my freedom.

And the winner is...

2008-11-10T08:46:00.000-08:00

Souhegan Kennel CLub

November 9, 2008

First Place 9-12 Dog

Winners Dog

Best of Winners

A special thanks to replacement Judge Brad Dunn

Okay, I can't figure this out - everyone say don't expect to win, but he does! This was our second AKC show and his first pointed show. I'm pretty proud of the little guy!

Jazz was very happy to see his buddy JoAnne and her son who came to offer support (and help me hold things since I was a reck!). Our Trainer Darlynn from The Right Paw was there too - we couldn't do this without her!! Head up! Head up!!!

Well, We have another show just around the corner - November 23 & 24 - wish us luck! Jazz will be fine, he takes it all in stride - I may faint!

Jazz's Show Photo

2008-11-04T16:06:00.000-08:00

Well here he is folks - the dog of the hour.

Kuroi Kao All That Jazz

First Place Puppy 9-12 Months

Reserve Winners Dog

A special thank you to Judge Steve Lisker

Kuroi Kao All That Jazz

2008-10-28T07:47:00.000-07:00

And don't you forget it!

Well, Jazzy has gone to his first AKC Dog show. It was a very scary thing for us both! We were a little more prepared than we were for the UKC having many more handling classes under our belt. My little man was totally star struck by all the noise and dogs, dogs, dogs! He makes this weird grunty noise when he's excited - so it was a pretty grunty morning! He sounded like a giant pig for a while there. I of course was a nervous wreck, not so bad as last time, but let me tell ya - don't go to a dog show when you a runnin' a fever. Man I was soaked before the classes even started.

Jazzy performed beautifully once he got in the ring, like he knew where he was and why he was there. Let's face it he's no seasoned professional and neither am I, but he stood well, stayed put and smiled real pretty for the Judge. The Judge even told me "you have a nice puppy there" on our way out of the Winners Class

Oh, did I forget to mention he took Best Puppy Male - yup and he actually beat someone! He took Reserve in Winners but hey, that was pretty good too for nine months (and 6 days) old!

These photos were taken the day after the show when he was just about fed up with "standing" and posing! Not a bad looking boy though huh?

COOKIE! COOKIE! COOKIE!

2008-10-27T13:22:00.000-07:00

Want some?

FROGS!!!!

2008-09-08T06:45:00.000-07:00

The remnants of Hurricane Hanna brought us a deluge of rain Saturday night and with came...THE FROGS!!! Jillions of frogs took refuge in our pool from...what? Water?!?!?! Hmm frogs - not so smart.

Jazz was beside himself he thinks the frogs and toads of the world were put here just to entertain him. He spent hours running around the pool trying to catch the little buggers. I finally took pity on him and "saved' the froggies and transported them back to pond down the hill. Jazz was sad and spent a fair amount of time just gazing into the pool in the hopes that the frogs would come back and play.

Wanna Play?

Here froggie froggie froggie...

Gotcha!

I letted him go...

CH-CH-CH-Changes

2008-09-05T07:17:00.000-07:00

Okay it has been WAY too long since I posted about my little friends! Not so little any more eh? Jazz has caught up to Miss Kat in size at only 7.5 months! Me thinks he is going to be a GIANT!!! His personality certainly is!

I swore that I would never compare him or Kat to Niki and Oso but I find myself seeing little bits of them in both the babies. Kat has Niki's elegance although I think she is far more graceful and perhaps not so confident. She has such gentle grace and moves like an angel fairly floating everywhere she goes...

Jazz, well, he is Oso all over. He moves like a lion all confident and proud, he is truly awesome to see. He does have an independant streak that Oso did not have but I think perhaps he knows how special he is!

They are very taken with each other; beating the snot out of each one minute and gently cleaning each other ears the next. What a pair!

We are all back in "school"; Jazz for basic obedience and Kat has moved up to advanced with a new trainer. She is of course the class darling while Jazz is the class bad boy!

Bad Boy goes to his second show Sept 26, he should do well as he has come together beautifully in the past few weeks. The obedience has helped he and I to understand how to work together as a team, unlike the first time when I was a wreck and he was unsure of what I wanted from him. Wish us luck!

Super Star!!!

2008-07-31T07:33:00.000-07:00

Well, we took our wee boy to a show and looky looky how he did!!!

I have to say that this was one of the hardest things I've done in a long time! I was a wreck and alot of my nerves transfered to my boy. But, that being said Jazz won first place for his age and Best Male (okay so he was the only male and the only one in his age group). Hurray, then he won Best of WInners and Best of Breed against an 18 month old Champion girl. He held his own in Best of Group, only an honorable mention but it was very scary for him with a strange bigger intack male crowding up behind us. Yay Jazz!

This was our first time in the ring after what I now know was inadequate training(for me). Jazz was great very alert and he had the biggest smiles for the judges on his down and backs - what a ham! The rest, stacking and standing for examination was a little dicey for the little guy - and me. I had no clue what I was doing - or I did before I got there and then it all leaked out my ear.

He was actually in 2 shows one in the morning and one in the afternoon. The morning show was the minning show, we were fresh and I hadn't forgotten everything yet! In the afternoon, Jazzy just wanted go home, he wasn't sparkling and I wasn't helping, so he won First and Best Male again but after that we fizzled. Poor little guy just wanted to go home and nap!

As you can see the ribbons didn't mean much to him when we got home...he was happier with his prize - a nice little frozen bone, which he fell asleep chewing.

Everything was back to normal the next day - just look at that smile!!!

I was not pouting!

2008-06-22T12:57:00.000-07:00

Sad victim of strange bendy disease!

Move Over Pop

2008-06-22T12:47:00.001-07:00

So, were does a 60 pound akita puppy lay? Anyplace he wants!!!!

It was a beautiful day yesterday and we were all hangin' around the pool - okay Kat was in the house sulking...but anyway. Jazz thought the hammock might just be a pretty cool place to be, so up he went, no fear of falling - or flipping M out onto the ground. (ya,um, last week he flipped me right out onto my face - now THAT would have made good TV!)

I can has your pepsi?

Okay, if I can't has your pepsi - move over!

Okay, I'm good.

Akita Yoga!

2008-06-10T09:06:00.001-07:00

Jazz practices the fine art of Akita Yoga while Kat watches amazed by his flexibility!

Growing Boy

2008-06-05T08:10:00.001-07:00

48 Pounds! And it's all muscle - this little guy hasn't got an ounce of fat! And look at that tail!

Just a comparison - look how big he is compared to Kat - who weighs about 90 pounds...Me thinks we have a mutant!

A piece of my heart

2008-05-08T12:45:00.000-07:00

It has taken me a week to come to terms with this post.

My most handsome boy had to be put to rest on Friday last. After the scare in September we thought we had been given time - a long time. With the arrival of Jazz we thought even longer because thanks to Priscilla we had a pain med that gave Oso some peace. He was able to run again and play.

But On Friday May 2 I came home to a very sick boy, and so M and I took Oso for his last ride.

A piece of what made me me died that day and it will never be replaced...

Oso Smiles

Young and Strong

Joyous Walks

My Man's Best Friend

Come and Play!

Intensity

Love

Happiness

Peace.

Buddies

2008-05-08T12:42:00.000-07:00

So this was the scene when I left for work this morning - I really wanted to stay home and cuddle them instead!

The Red Coats are coming....

2008-04-21T12:07:00.000-07:00

Smile Pretty for the Camera

2008-04-11T06:58:00.000-07:00

Kat has a passion for climbing on things as you know. Yesterday afternoon while everyone else was lazing in the sun, she chose to relax and observe us all from on high!

I'm a big boy now!

2008-04-09T06:07:00.000-07:00

Look what's growing in my garden!!! Okay so it could be a better photo, but what do you expect at 5:45 in the morning!!!

What's up doc?

2008-04-09T05:30:00.000-07:00

My Ear!!!

Well, it dropped again a little while later but he is holding it up more and more. His right ear has also made an appearance, but only a cameo.

I'm pooped.

2008-04-07T18:44:00.000-07:00

Jazz is running our girl ragged! SHe spends so much time worrying about him and what he's doing the poor girl forgets to nap durring the day. Oh well, she will settle down and things will get back to normal.

I can see you...

2008-04-06T18:40:00.000-07:00

Okay, so all the lawn furniture is piled on the deck waiting for summer right? Unfortunately it is piled right in front of the slider that Kat likes to tap on when she wants to come in...here shes trying to work her way to the window by hopping from chair to chair. My girlie is very industrious!

Weekends Is Great!!!

2008-04-06T16:40:00.000-07:00

Wubba Slayer

2008-04-03T05:50:00.000-07:00

Dirt Ball!

2008-04-02T13:18:00.001-07:00

Due to some dirt ball, scumbag leaving a virus link in comments I am shutting comments off for a while. People really stink don't they!

Jail Break!!

2008-04-02T13:08:00.001-07:00

Someone doesn't like being in his time out space...Actually he only goes here when the big dogs eat - he kind likes to plant his face in their dishes and well, Oso doesn't like it much!!

The Pack

2008-04-02T10:06:00.000-07:00

We got us a swimmer!

2008-04-01T15:00:00.000-07:00

Ya, put your left foot in...

AND your right foot, and ya shake it all about...

..that's how you do the puppy polka!

What?

2008-04-01T08:23:00.000-07:00

I wasn't doin' nothin', I was only looking..

Puppy Wars!

2008-03-31T08:04:00.000-07:00

Okay, so we have a little power struggle about who gets Ropey, but usually Kat gives it up...until he's not lookin'!

I mean, why chew on Ropey when Kat's face is just as tasty!

Kat and Jazz

2008-03-30T16:00:00.000-07:00

Looks like Kat and Jazz are getting along pretty good, now we need to get Oso to come to the party - Although this all out love fest is a bit beneath him...

Snow!!

2008-03-29T07:49:00.000-07:00

This is Jazz's first foray into the yard, he has decided that snow and dirt are both food groups!!!

Catchin' a few Zs

2008-03-28T18:00:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a very big day, but Jazz seems to be pretty relaxed...

Jazz Has Arrived!

2008-03-28T06:03:00.000-07:00

Well here are some photo's from Jazz's first day - I don't have much to say except..Isn't he the CUTEST little guy!!!