Wolf's Den

It's been 14+ years since we've had either of those.

Caena Kamikaze Ryu is a 3.5 month old Rescue Akita puppy, from Heart of Dixie Akita Rescue. She was born June 15, 2008.

Calliope and her 7 pups were dumped by her owner in a shelter in Georgia when the pups were 2 days old.

This litter was so sick, that Rachel (of HoDAR) wasn't sure at times they'd make it. As a possible result, they are smaller than average Akita pups at their age. Whether this is due to their being so sick, or it being Chrondrodysplasia(a hereditary genetic disorder that affects the bone growth and joints, as well as heart and liver issues), they simply don't know.

Other than small size, no other symptoms have manifested as of YET. So, Caena and her siblings could simply be small/petite Akitas. We think she may top out at around 50lbs, 60lbs if we're lucky, although she will always be short- or as I say, small in stature, and will most likely have arthritis early on and other joint issues. Which is why we want to get her into agility classes, to help work those joints and strengthen the muscles.

She's fiesty, and a lover. HATES being alone in her kennel at night. She's just not used to being by herself. Last night was the first night without a sibling. NO accidents in the house!

She's all Play!Play! with Mark and I. Very curious, wants to explore, can't figure out why the cats are bigger/as big as her and don't want to play. Loves the backhill. She's a digger too, roots out the grass, throws it around, chases leaves. Loves her puppy Kong.}:)

Aries came down twice on his own last night, to check her out. Came down again today, was going to hang out on the couch because she was sleeping, when Caena woke up, saw him, and wanted to play. Needless to say, Aries got scared and went back upstairs. I think within a week or two, he'll be fine.

Max on the other hand. He hasn't come downstairs on his own yet. I brought him down last night. He pointedly ignored Caena until he couldn't anymore, then hissed, snarled, fluffed up bigger than his 20lb self(at which he is 5lbs HEAVIER than Caena!), if that is possible and stalked across the back of the couch, then up the stairs. Where he has stayed since. He will take awhile. He never really cared for Dante either though.

When we take her down for a 6 month checkup in Dec, I'm going to talk to my vet about genetic testing for the Chrondrodysplasia, as IF she does have it, we want to know what to expect. If she does, she won't live as long as Dante did, but nonetheless, she will have a very full, VERY happy, love filled life.

There's nothing like a Rescue puppy. This was definately the right choice.

Expect to be spammed with photos over the coming days, weeks, YEARS.

(I'm on Mark's computer right now, later this evening, I'll have to make and upload Caena icons.}:) )