" I spoke with Rebecca at length last night regarding her visit with the 8 Akitas from the puppymill in Arkansas. This is what we know about them… (please note that the ages are estimates, except for the puppies, which were born last December).
Pen #1 contains one male (age 1-3 years), not socialized at all, seemed like he wanted to approach Rebecca but was fearful, but not aggressive. 3 male puppies 10 months old, along with one female puppy from same litter. All four puppies were fearful of people, but not aggressive. One adult female (about 5 years old), the puppies mother, who was extremely friendly and affectionate. She also approached the toys and seemed to know what they were. She does appear to be pregnant. The puppies are relying on their mom for reassurance after being taken from the mill.
Pen #2 contains one adult male (age 3-5 years), not social, but did approach Rebecca for petting. One long-coated female (age 2-4 years), she was extremely friendly and wanted lots of love. A small “terrier” type dog got into the pen with these two, but both showed no aggression toward the terrier at all.
All the Akitas, except the long-coated female, tested positive for that tick born disease and will need treatment. The “momma” will need xrays to determine whether she is in fact pregnant, and if so, how far along. It may be possible to abort the puppies. Otherwise, she will need to go to a rescue that will be able to handle her before, during and after delivery of pups. Let’s hope she is not pregnant.
These Akitas need to go to rescue ASAP. At the moment they are exposed to flies, ticks, feces and each other (which could result in a pregnancy).
I am sending pictures under separate email of them. Please let me know ASAP which one(s) your rescue is able to take. Since MARS already has an approved adopter for a male and female, I think MARS should choose first. ARSF has transport all set-up, so Dorie should choose after MARS.
The older male, penned with the long-coat female, may be difficult to socialize at his age. I think a second opinion on his demeanor is in order; I will work on that.
Thanks,
Lisa Gray
ACA Rescue Coordinator"
Also-
"Estimated cost to transport the Akitas that are coming to the east coast is $2,000. I’m skeptical as to whether the ACA Board will approve that high an amount. If anyone would like to donate toward the overall costs (spay/neuters, medical treatment, transport) please visit ARMAC’s website, http://akitarescue.rescuegroups.org/
Sincerely,
Lisa Gray"
