Not everyone is looking for a puppy, and The Squaw Peak Akita Club helps find new, loving homes for adult Akitas in need.

It’s not the dog’s fault.

Remember that the adult dog you are considering did not choose to be displaced. He may need a new home because of a move, a new baby, an illness or he may just have gotten lost. He longs for stability and will reward you with loyalty and devotion for the rest of his life.

Many prospective dog owners are not convinced that owning an older dog (six months or older) is better than buying a puppy. But there are a number of reasons why adopting a pet that has been displaced can be an even better opportunity.

• What you see is what you get. Most of our adult Akitas have reached their full growth. There is no question about how big a puppy will be at maturity or what they will look like when fully grown.
• Companionship. You have an instant companion you can take with you NOW. No waiting for a puppy to grow up (and then hope he will like to do what you enjoy). You will have selected the most compatible dog to your lifestyle: one that travels well; one with house manners, one who likes to go for a jog. You can come home after a long day’s work and spend your time on a relaxing walk, ride or swim with your new best friend (rather than cleaning up after a puppy).
• A good night’s sleep. No getting up in the middle of the night with a whining puppy or to take a puppy outdoors.
• Housebroken. Adult dogs are generally housebroken. Many know basic obedience commands.
• No chewing. Adult dogs have passed through the puppy chewing stage, so your slippers and newspapers are less likely to be shredded.
• Bonding. Dogs who have been uprooted from their homes or have not had the best start in life are more likely to bond very completely and deeply with their new people. Those who have lost their families through death, divorce or lifestyle change go through a mourning process just as we do. But once placed with a new loving family, they seem to want to please as much as possible to make sure they are never homeless again. Those dogs that are just learning about the good life and good people seem to bond even more deeply. They revel and blossom in a nurturing, loving environment.
• A Forever Home. You have saved the life of a dog in need.

Most dogs in our care have been spayed or neutered. All dogs in our care have been health and temperament screened.

If you are considering an Akita, please learn as much as you can about the breed before getting your new dog.

We are also looking for foster families to care for displaced Akitas while we locate permanent homes.

What can you do?

• Consider adopting one of our available Akitas.
• Consider fostering an Akita until a new, permanent home can be found.
• Support our rescue efforts by sponsoring an Akita in our care, and get a photo plus regular updates.
• Make a one-time donation to help us defray expenses. Checks may be made out to the Squaw Peak Akita Club.
• Tell your friends!