Adoption status: Adopted!
Saisei is a 4 year old, female, red Shiba Inu.
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Hello everyone, my name is now Saisei and it means “rebirth” or “return to life” in Japanese. I am a 4-year-old, female Shiba Inu. I’m small at just 24 lbs! My story will make your heart sad. I was taken from my owners over a year ago as an abuse case. I was nearly starved to death at just 8lbs! I was terrified of the world and its cruelty. I had heartworm (HW) & lost hope to live a life that a Shiba Inu should. But my life changed when animal control took me from my abusive home. I was held for a year in the abuse case against my owners. During this time, I was given a sense of safety, much needed medical care, and regained my love & trust for humans from the kindness I received.

DC SIR volunteers drove over 20 hrs to pick me up and bring me to Shiba HQ. They were so saddened by my past that they wanted to ensure I have the best possible life. They require all adopters to adhere to a reward-based training program so that I will never fear humans again. They emphasize optimal nutrition and a healthy environment. The volunteers could see how much the shelter staff cared for me and I got to say my goodbyes and begin my journey to DCSIR. I rode really well in the car to DC SIR and just slept most of the ride. I got to eat the special treats DC SIR gives on transport! It was boiled chicken and I ate it all!!!

When I arrived at Shiba HQ, I got to explore the yard then meet the neutral dog, Katniss. I growled a bit but she seemed ok and I got to meet all the other dogs. I really enjoyed playing with the puppy Tamashi. Matter of fact, we can’t stop playing together. DC SIR thinks my personality is more like a puppy! I love playing with toys and butt check my friends at Shiba HQ. I have been treated for HW and I will need a 2-week medical and behavior assessment before I am ready for adoption. I know DC SIR volunteers put in a lot of work to ensure each and every rescue gets the best possible forever home and I will forever be part of a loving community that wants the best for me!

FOSTER UPDATE: Once Saisei trusts you, she will persistently paw for pets and nap on your lap. If you don’t give her the attention she desires, expect her to kick up her feet in protest! Saisei has lived in a multidog home with numerous new dog interactions. Saisei does not seem to like female dogs much but she can tolerate them. Saisei is especially drawn to puppies. This is where we see her shine. Shiba HQ recently had 2 male puppies who Saisei played with and protected quite diligently. Saisei is so protective of the puppies that if another dog growls or snaps at them she may charge the other dogs. Other than preferring males and being very protective of ‘her’ puppy buddies, Saisei is considered a dog-friendly dog that can easily get along with multiple dogs in various environments. We do feel she would prefer to live with a playful and friendly male dog (she doesn’t tolerate snarky male dogs!). Saisei does get along fine with the resident cat and also other cats she has met on trips. Saisei loves to go on walks and would make an amazing companion for a family that would like to bring her on daily errands as she has done well in going to dog-friendly stores and restaurants with her foster mom.

Saisei has not had any potty accidents nor has she been destructive. She is not crated and has no issues being in the home unattended. Saisei loves her diverse raw food diet and always eats everything in bowl. She is also treat motivated and will thrive with more reward based training sessions to help bond with an adopter. Saisei can be a bit fearful of strange men and startled by people suddenly making noise/‘grabbing’ her from behind (we saw this issue at adoption events).This poor girl has had a terrible experience at the hand of cruel humans. She deserves to see the kindest part of humans.

Location: Local
Dogs: Yes (prefers males)
Cats: Yes
Kids: 12 yr+
Weight: 24lbs
Intake date: 8/13/18
Available date: 08/28/18

Considerations: Abuse case. Somewhat hand shy. Bonding/trust building.

Follow Saisei’s progress in her Facebook album!