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Our Orphans Are all equal in our eyes—young or old, show quality or pet We see them through the eyes of rescue Beyond physical apperance, beyond age, beyond judgment Each one deserving of love, compassion and a forever home We see their spirit and love them equally We kindly ask that you do the same. Additional information on the breed and our application, which is required, are located under the Welcome Menu above.

 

NIKKI “I have always been delighted at the prospect of a new day, a fresh try, one more start, with perhaps a bit of magic waiting somewhere behind the morning...”--- J. Priestley Dover, OH Sponsor Me Nikki is a stunning six year-old girl who was living on a farm and came to MARS when her owners could no longer keep her. Born in 2005, Nikki spent most of her time outdoors and slept in the barn or an office within the barn. Nikki is a strong and solid girl thanks to the fresh country air and lots of exercise. She is also very friendly, enjoys meeting people and bonds very quickly. Nikki was good with her family’s children and she lived with horses and cows without any issues. She was born in October of 2005. Her owners had her spayed when she was younger; she is heartworm negative and now current on vaccinations. Moving from a country farm to a home in a city meant Nikki would have to learn a lot of new things. Thanks to her being supper smart, people focused, and her foster Dad Brett, she has been managing the huge change in lifestyle much better than anyone anticipated. Here are the cliff notes we received on her progress: Excellent house manners, will you know when she needs out. LOVES to be outside and relax. Bonds quickly—“She heard his jeep a block away and began dancing. She was so excited to see him.” Seeks attention but not needy. Loves everyone she meets. Happy to be with people but is fine being by herself. Very treat motivated and interested in what you are doing with your hands because it might be for her! Had a few rough spots, but has now adapted to the crate very well. Might do okay with a mellow male, but no cats While green acres is no longer the place to be for Nikki, she is doing remarkably well being a city girl. Without a doubt, she will quickly bond to a new family. Her dream home would have room for her crate, a comfy bed, a fenced yard (did we mention she loves to be outside!), and most importantly a family that understands the adjustment she is going through and the patience to let her gently see the magic waiting behind each new morning. For more information about Nikki, please contact Deanna O’Brien at marsakitas@sbcglobal.net or 773-594-9302.

 

WAITE Sometimes getting to safety requires one to climb a hill Cleveland, OH Sponsor Me Patience serves as a protection against wrongs as clothes do against cold. For if you put on more clothes as the cold increases, it will have no power to hurt you. So in like manner you must grow in patience when you meet with great wrongs, and they will then be powerless to vex your mind. Leonardo Da Vinci . . . Looking at Waite’s pictures, you would never suspect the life he led for the first two years of his life. Kept in a small, outdoor kennel full of mud and feces, his food was simply thrown on the ground. No care, no love, no life—yet Waite remained a friendly and playful boy. With evidence in hand, the authorities were able to seize Waite. He was safe, but now Waite and the Animal Control Officer who freed him, had to once again grow in patience. Despite Waite’s horrible living conditions, the law guaranteed his owner the chance to present his side of the story. It took four months for Animal Control to be granted legal ownership of Waite. While the wheels of justice seemed to move ever so slowly, life improved significantly for Waite. He was being cared for and loved, and quickly winning over the Animal Control Officer who saved him. There was mutual respect and admiration, along with visits from the two-legged and four-legged members of the officer’s family. Waite was enjoying his new life, but his hero already had a full house and this very special ACO went to work on finding a rescue to help Waite. Waite is an energetic and outgoing boy. He is a medium sized and very strong. Despite having spent much of his early life in deplorable conditions, he has maintained a positive outlook. Under the leadership of his hero, and now our Cleveland Volunteer Crew, Waite is learning how to live in a more open world. He is gentle when taking treats and enjoys interacting with people. However, much of the world is new to Waite and while usually patient, he wants to explore everything NOW, especially when he is outside. So while Waite is a happy, outgoing, good looking, athletic dog he will need a family that is able and willing to continue leading him along his new path of discovery. Obedience classes would be beneficial and we think Waite’s desire to investigate, might make him a good candidate for nose work. If patience is indeed a virtue than neglected dogs must be among the most virtuous beings to grace the earth. And Waite is no exception. While eager to explore, he is willing to wait for the right family to come along. For more information on Waite, or any of our available orphans, please contact Deanna O’Brien at marsakita@sbcglobal.net or 773-594-9302.

 

BENTLEY Am I There Yet? St. Louis, MO Sponsor Me Play with toys sure is fun, but . . . Hi! I’m Bentley and the nice people at MARS said I could tell you a little bit about myself and my adventure of the past couple of months, so here goes…. My story begins when I recently found myself on the streets of the Benton Park neighborhood in St. Louis, Missouri. Everyone tells me I am a very level headed fellow cause I didn’t get all scared when I found myself all alone in this strange place, but honestly it was a little scary. I did think it was a good idea to try and find some people to help me find where I was supposed to be, because I was pretty sure it wasn’t on the street by myself with nothing to eat. I am a growing boy you know! I saw this couple walking a dog, so I trotted up to them and introduced myself. Oh before I forget, the MARS people said to make sure I told you I behave really well around other dogs cause that is important for some reason, and oh cats too – gosh come to think of it I think I like everybody. So anyway, I tried to see if their dog would like to play with me and while I was getting acquainted I quickly realized I had found the nicest people I could have ever hoped for. They commented on my clean coat and well maintained nails, plus what a well-mannered boy I am (told you they were nice people!) and that I must have slipped out of my collar and gotten away from my owner, who was no doubt frantically searching for me. They just made me feel all loved and I wasn’t even a little bit scared anymore because I just knew my new friends would help me. Unfortunately after we walked around for quite some time they still had not found anybody looking for me. But guess what??? They let me come home with them so I had a safe place to stay while things got sorted out. Wasn’t that the best? They even took me to a vet to see if I had something called a microchip, but I didn’t, and a few weeks later, despite contacting various animal assistance groups in St. Louis, they realized nobody was looking for me and I needed some more help. I liked their dog just fine, but I learned that some dogs really prefer to have their people all to themselves, and that’s when my new friends told me all about Rescue and the need for me to take another step in my road trip to a forever home. giving out kisses is a lot more fun! So here I am in Rescue. The nice MARS people took me to a vet, and she estimates my age to be between 9-12 months, and most likely I have a bit of boxer or some other breed in me. My new MARS friend said they would put some pictures of me on my story so you could see what a beautiful boy I am (gosh I hope they got my good side!) and to make sure I told you that what most impresses everyone who meets me is my beautiful heart. Awww that just makes me want to wag my tail and give out Bentley kisses! “One of the sweetest dogs I have ever met” is what she put on my assessment and one of my new friends at the kennel said to tell you “he's just so sweet, you can't help but love being around this boy”. I know I am a lucky boy to have had such a good road trip and made all these new friends, but I am ready to be home. So what do you think – am I there yet? Editor’s note: Our sincere thanks to Bentlry's MARS Buddy for getting him to safety and helping him tell his story. And for doing all the typing! He sure sounds like a level-headed guy. And his good looks don’t hurt! In case Bentley can’t get to the computer, if you’d like to know more about him or our adoption procedures, please contact Deanna O’Brien at marsakita@sbcglobal.net or 773-594-9302.

 

ADOPTION PENDING! - GILMORE - ADOPTION PENDING! If you’re happy and you know it wag your tail! Cleveland, IL Sponsor Me Sometimes you lose your home and end up in the penalty box of life. And sometimes, with a little encouragement and assistance you find yourself excelling in an entirely different arena . . . Gil is a one-of-a-kind guy, a truly happy soul. We know nothing about his life before rescue. He was a stray in a kill shelter in Ohio. The staff realized how special he was and so did an all breed rescue that pulled him to insure his safety. Unfortunately his foster Mom developed health issues and word went out to the Akita community. Here how she described him-- “He has been an awesome guest, very sweet, gentle soul. He has been examined by our veterinarian and we are told they estimate him at only two (2) years old. He is a good traveler, loves his car rides. He is an interesting, gentle walker, likes to have the leash in his mouth. Very playful, fun to watch, fun to play with and really fun to just cuddle with. This boy was beloved by all at the pound, and we can see why. “ It took awhile, but Gil was finally on his way to MARS. Since his arrival he has been, well happy! We haven’t found anything that really bothers him. And, according to our volunteers he is very friendly, active, curious, comical, playful, and, you guessed it—HAPPY! For more information on Gil, please contact Deanna O’Brien at marsakita@sbcglobal.net or 773-594-9302. In addition to our normal application process, potential adopters should be prepared to demonstrate a happy woo-wooooo!

 

ROMAN Friends, Rescuers and Countrymen lend us your ears . . . Menomonie, WI Sponsor Me Roman has learned the sad lesson that not all roads lead to home. Sometimes no matter how hard people try, the road to home becomes bumpy. Thankfully, when friends, rescuers and countrymen lend their help we can build a new road home . . . . Roman originally hails from just outside Chicago. He, along with many other animals, were the beloved, and cared for critters of a lady who kept them all on a farm. She had been trying to sell the farm but with the current economy it sat empty for a long time and never sold. When the utilities were going to be turned off she knew she had to find a warm place for Roman. With a heavy heart she brought him to a shelter. The staff quickly fell in love with this handsome gentleman and dispatched a message to rescues about a noble Roman in need. The MARS of rescue, not mythology, responded and offered to help Roman find a new road home. This wonderful boy of six passed the shelter’s citizenry test without a hitch. However, his heartworm test was positive but one special staffer would not be deterred. She took him to the Vet and additional tests and x-rays showed it was caught early. There was no damage and the Vet declared Roman a stellar candidate for treatment. Then the staff graciously offered to keep Roman while arrangements were made for a foster home. The road from Tinley Park to Menomonie was a long one, but all the chariot drivers that helped transport Roman proclaimed him a wonderful Akita. One driver also noted that Roman likes speeches. When you talk to him he lends you both ears and listens with great interest! His foster family has also issued a decree proclaiming Roman to be calm, friendly and full of love and life. In addition, Roman does not appear to be overly concerned with other dogs and and greeted a young citizen with wags and wiggles of sheer joy. He will easily fit in most any empire. Roman is being treated for heartworm and is ready to travel the road to a new home. Lend us your ear and contact Deanna O’Brien at marsakita@sbcglobal.net or 773-594-9302 to hear more about Roman. Togas not required!

 

SUKI Hope Springs Eternal Cleveland, OH Sponsor Me Suki is a former MARS orphan who was originally named Nadia, which means “hopeful”. Unfortunately, this pretty girl is once again hoping to find a forever family. Here is what we wrote when she first came to MARS in 2008 . . . Nadia is hoping her luck will change for the better. We first heard about this very pretty girl when Animal Control contacted us about an Akita that they had picked up as a stray. She was described as very people friendly and they were hoping we had room—“I would really like to see her go to rescue though because we can’t screen our adopters and I would hate to see someone else put her outside and ignore her” But, before we could help, her owners showed up and reclaimed her. They returned to the shelter just a few months later. Nadia, the cute little puppy they had gotten from a breeder in Indiana was suddenly too big. They no longer wanted her. Once again the nice folks at the shelter reached out to rescue--maybe with our help, Nadia could find a family that doesn’t mind her size, a family that is familiar with the breed. One can always hope—sometimes that is all we can do. Little Nadia made a very big impression on our volunteer—“I am in love. I was comfortable enough with her to poke, pinch, pull, etc... She did not care. She just wants your attention”. According to her owners, Nadia was raised with children and other dogs but we feel she would do best in a home without small pets. She was good girl at the Vet clinic and has enjoyed running errands with her temporary foster family. Fast forward a few years and Suki has grown into a beautiful adult Akita. She has been a wonderful companion but is now hoping she can find a new forever family to love her so peace can be restored in her neighborhood . . . Suki's Akita brother gets into trouble when the family leaves the house, so the dogs stay in a large kennel in the garage when no one is home—which isn’t very often or for very long. The Dad works from home and is only gone a brief time to drop-off, and then pick-up the older children from school. No one really knows for sure what happened but they think one afternoon Suki must have gotten out of the kennel while Dad was getting the kids. The babysitter didn't realize Suki was loose in the garage and Suki slipped out undetected when the garage door was opened. When her owner returned a short time later, he found Suki in their fenced backyard. He was perplexed but there were no notes or messages and was going to check with the babysitter. Later that night the family learned that there had been an altercation between Suki and a small dog that lived a few houses down the street. The other dog had been injured. No one saw what happened, who started it or where it even started. It is ironic that the owner of the small dog was the person who brought Suki back home and put her in her yard without incident, but the spouse is determined to see Suki gone. The other irony is the small dog is allowed to roam the neighborhood and has often come up to their fence and barked at Suki and her brother. Suki did get out, but it truly was an accident. Her family has been very responsible and has done everything to be good dog owners. Unfortunately, no one is moving anytime soon so to keep peace Suki will be coming back to MARS. Her owners could not tell us one negative thing about her; she is well-behaved, mannered and is good with their young children. We know many would say Suki shouldn't have to be rehomed, but we are not living on that street, we are not the ones dealing with situation. Life isn’t always fair, but Suki will be safe. If you would love to have a beautiful and faithful friend, Suki is hoping to hear from you. For more information on Suki, please contact Deanna O'Brien at marsakita@sbcglobal.net or 773-594-9302.

 

ADOPTION PENDING! - ERNIE - ADOPTION PENDING! Elf Magic Indianapolis, IN Sponsor Me ‘Twas a few weeks before Christmas when Ernie was sighted in a tough part of town. Instead of a ride in a sleigh from a white-bearded gentleman in a red suit, Ernie got a ride in the animal paddy wagon from a gentleman in a uniform with a badge. Instead of a brightly decorated home filled with the scent of pine cones and cinnamon, Ernie found himself in a concrete and wire run filled with the scent of disinfectant. No sugar cookies and cocoa just kibble and water. Despite the dissimilarities with his counterparts at the North Pole, Ernie’s jovial spirit never dimmed. And despite their tough jobs, the shelter staff and volunteers still had a bit of elf-like hope and optimism. One volunteer in particular took him under her wing, determined that this jolly boy would find his way to a forever home . . . Ernie is a very friendly and happy fellow. Despite being in a shelter, he always seemed to have a twinkle in his eye. When MARS wasn’t sure they would have room, Ernie’s angel offered to pay for a week of boarding while we all worked a little Elf magic. Our volunteers headed to the kennel to evaluate Ernie. The kennel had a wonderful waiting area and soon Ernie emerged, with a big grin and full of wags. He immediately strode up to a volunteer who was seated on a bench and immediately started to make friends. He sat on command and offered his paw. A few minutes, and treats later, Ernie was on his back looking for belly rubs. This dude was one confident and friendly Akita. As the kennel owner gave our volunteers a tour, Ernie trotted right along. He wasn’t bothered by the other dogs in their runs and responded well to everyone. He did keep his eye on the owner, who he obliviously had fallen for. Everyone returned to the waiting area and our volunteers swear the life-size Santa seated in the corner smiled when MARS agreed to take Ernie. A few days, and fluffy bath, later Ernie was on his way to a foster home. He rode very well on his transport, taking everything in stride. He met his fosters as if they were old friends and eagerly got in their car when it was time to head for home. It did take him a few days to adjust to yet another change in his living quarters, but he is doing very well. One of the resident dogs keeps him company in the kennel. And, remember our Millie? Well, she and Ernie chat through the fence, separating their yards. So far, Ernie doesn’t seem overly interested in the cats. When out of his kennel, he has been well-behaved. Ernie’s foster folk believe someone had worked with Ernie in the past—he sits up on his hind legs to beg and rolls over—how many other Akitas do you know that can roll over! He takes treats nicely, does okay on a leash and overall is eager to please. Ernie did well at the Vet and has been neutered and vaccinated. He is 4-5 years old (that’s very young in Elf years) and eager for his forever home. So far he truly seems to just roll (no pun intended) along with life. Ernie came from South Bend and now awaits his slice of life at the North Pole. If your home needs a little Elf magic and you love the smell of pine cones and cinnamon, please contact Deanna O’Brien for more information on Ernie—he’ll be smiling!

 

ADOPTION PENDING! - ZEUS - ADOPTION PENDING! The God of Akita Mythology Waterford, WI Sponsor Me I think my tail looks like a thunderbolt! And, I'm more handsome than the Greek gods. Psst, do all Akitas gods have to wear these red collars? In Greek mythology, Zeus was the Father of Gods and men. Known for escapades which resulted in many offspring, it is believed that all gods, even those he did not sire, rose in his presence. He is usually depicted striding forward with a thunderbolt in his hand or seated in majesty. We’re not sure why, but when the story of Zeus was translated from Greek to Rescue, things took a slightly different meaning . . . Zeus was originally purchased by a lady, who gave him to her son. The son lived with a roommate who also had a male dog. Neither was neutered and being teenagers they were vying for the position of top dog (God spelled backwards, must be the translation). When things started to get out of hand, Zeus, at the young age of 17 months was brought to the Humane Society. Not exactly the place for the Father of Gods and men. Fortunately the shelter staff saw beyond the myths and contacted MARS for assistance. They were full but, if we had room for Zeus, they would hold him for us. Knowing this most likely meant another dog would perish, a volunteer offered to take out the chariot and retrieve Zeus. Arrangements were made with the shelter to put an end to any escapades that might result in offspring. The clinic staff was pleased with the behavior of the young boy. And while a little wobbly for a god, Zeus was very handsome and on his way to rescue. As he healed from his surgery his personality and intelligence began to emerge. It was obvious his previous humans did not know much about Akita gods. With each passing day, Zeus became more relaxed. It was as though the shell he erected in order to survive began to melt. He became more animated, more playful, more loving. One thing was very clear from the start, Zeus of Rescue mythology is every bit as smart as his Greek counterpart. He quickly learned the routine and within a day he was sitting majestically for meals and treats, there were no complaints that his throne was actually a crate, and he would politely wait for his royal leash to be attached (well, at least most of the time). We did find another mix-up in the translation--seems our Zeus, thinks he is supposed to be a thunderbolt, not hold one in is paw. His play can be a bit like the rumbling of thunder and he tries to move like a bolt of lightning, including when he is on a leash. As more time passed and his confidence grew, Zeus learned to play brain games, loved rope toys and never chewed his stuffie. He was very curious about things, but also well-behaved. His stiff, god-like exterior continued to fade and a loving, playful Akita emerged. After a few more weeks it was time to move to a more permanent foster home. He now has a huge realm of a yard to play in while he continues to learn how polite gods behave. He has adapted well to the change and his personality continues to emerge. We think Zeus would prefer to be an only god in his universe, although with proper introductions he might be willing to share his realm with a goddess. Due to the fact that he misunderstood the thunderbolt legend, all human under his rule need to be teenaged and older. If you have a spare throne and would enjoy the challenge of continuing the education of a young god of Akita Mythology, please contact Deanna O’Brien for more information at marsakita@sbcglobal.net or 773-594-9302. Oh, and watch out for those thunderbolts!

 

MARS & THE SEARCH FOR THE RESCUE GRAIL any greatly desired and sought-after objective; ultimate ideal or reward Throughout history, many brave souls have set forth in search of the Holy Grail. Throughout MARS’ history, and that of all good rescues, many brave souls set forth daily in search of the Rescue Grail. Their journey takes them on a search for funds, foster homes, forever homes, and all manners of help. It is arduous work, and often sad. Thankfully, the orphans find a way to remind us that there is still laughter and joy to be shared. They remind us that if we pause each day and look in their eyes, for a few precious moments we will find the elusive grail—right in front of us . . . ADOPTION PENDING!-LADY GUINEVERE ADOPTION PENDING! Move over King Arthur, Sir Monty is in search of a hot babe! Cleveland, OH Sponsor Me Woo-woo Monty, maybe the Grail is behind this tree? My official royal portrait Monty hurry up & please stop marking all the trees! After being abandoned on the side of the road and running loose for a few days, Lady Guin was taken in by a kind lady-in-waiting from the Kingdom of Basset Rescue, after a man holding a gun, threatened to shoot Guin with buckshot to scare her off. The lady-in-waiting said she was just a pup and called Guin over to her. Thankfully the lady has been training dogs for many years, and thankfully Guin complied. Only a year old, Guin was grateful to be taken in and got along with the resident dogs but needed a place of her own. After checking with all the authorities and learning no one was looking for this pretty girl, MARS was contacted. Monty, upon hearing of Guin’s plight, begged us to make room for one more, after all it was the noble thing to do (he’s not fooling anyone, we know someone sent him her pictures via dog-mail!) What the young Rescue Royals do when they let their fur down! A petite girl who is still growing, Guin is very friendly and outgoing; no one is a stranger in her realm. Guin is currently learning to adjust to kennel life and that a polite young Lady does not jump up for kisses, but rather sits politely. She has great potential and like Monty, is very exuberant and would also benefit from a class in royal behavior. Her forever castle can have a Monty, but it should be without cats.

 

ADOPTION PENDING! - GRISSOM -ADOPTION PENDING! CSI: MARS – The “Grissom Needs a New Gig” Episode Cleveland, OH Sponsor Me Grissom, or Gris to his friends, needs a new gig. Seems his owner couldn't keep him. And, while he was trying to buy a new home, things just weren’t working out so Gris was left tied up at a relative’s house and the neighbors were complaining. There was little time to negotiate a new deal for Gris, so MARS stepped in to help. His owner did get him tested for Heartworm (thankfully it was negative) and updated his vaccinations; and MARS agreed to get him neutered. For now, Gris is on hiatus at the kennel in Cleveland, while he prepares for his next starring role. According to his former owner, Gris was friendly with people, played with the neighbors Boxer and did not seem overly interested in cats. Even though he was stressed at being tied outside, it was his routine and he saw people he knew. Moving to the kennel was a big change for him. However, Gris is settling in nicely and learning the layout of his new “set” as well as meeting all his new directors and co-stars. So far things are going well. We're all still trying to figure out exactly what key grips do. Gris said he's not worried, so long as they bring treats. He was a little disappointed that MARS does not provide Craft food services--he said they usually put on a really good spread. (From the looks of things, we think Gris was very familiar with the snack tables!) As you can see in his pictures, he does always seem to have a smile on his face. We’re not sure if he is trying to audition for a more relaxed character, trying to act more like his age (he’s only 2.5 years old), or if he is just genuinely more relaxed now that he has a more consistent routine and one that is inside. (We like to think he is just plain ol’ happier) If you would like to learn more about giving Gris the role of his lifetime, please contact Deanna O’Brien at marsakita@sbcglobal.net or 773-594-9302.

 

CHASE Rescue Helps Chase the Storm Clouds Away Ringwood, IL Sponsor Me Chase’s family was losing their home. The economy had put them in a difficult position and the outlook was not bright. They loved their dogs, and did their best, but they could no longer keep them. They contacted MARS for guidance and one of our volunteers went to visit the dogs. While dogs don’t understand economic downturns, they do pick up on the emotional state of their owners. Everyone in the household, including the Akitas, was a little stressed from the upheaval surrounding their family. A young female found a home with a family friend and MARS agreed to take in Chase. The day his owner took him to the kennel was emotional for all involved. Chase didn’t understand what was happening and his owner was heartbroken. Time and love have brightened the skies for Chase, we hope that knowing Chase is safe and in caring hands will help brighten a little part of the sky for his former family . . . Chase is a young boy of three years, who has a somewhat serious look about him. His regal good looks make him appear to be all business, a no nonsense kind of guy—well, beneath that debonair Akita exterior is a major—goof! Yep, now that he feels safe again and has settled in at the kennel, Chase has shown anyone willing to look, his true personality— a jovial, energetic, playful and happy boy who is fine with just about everyone. And if you stop and spend some time with Chase, he’ll show you the real meaning of the “Akita lean”. Sweet talk him and he starts to melt. He has been a good guest at the kennel, enjoys his long walks with the Cleveland Crew and visiting with our volunteers. While very playful, he is not high strung; and Chase is food motivated which helps with his training. Despite a serious rough patch, Chase survived. The storm clouds that hung over his life are clearing and he eagerly awaits a new home. To learn more about Chase please contact Deanna O’Brien at marsakita@sbcglobal.net or 773-594-9302. Oh, no need to watch the Weather Channel, we're pretty certain, Chase’s future is filled with sunshine! UPDATE: Chase has found a foster home and is enjoying the perks of living in home. He's not too sure why the rabbit keeps watching him, but he is now comfortable enough to sleep with both eyes closed! Our thanks to Len for fostering Chase! Chase is sending a long overdue woo-woo to Pam and Chance for being his sponsors and the great Saturday morning walks with treats!

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