ARSF is self-supporting and we rely on our own fund raising efforts and donations to support our activities. Fund raising projects include raffles, garage sales, T-shirt and calendar sales, concessions, sales at shows, among other things. ARSF has been operating since 1985. We have always been incorporated as a not for profit 501(c)3 organization in Florida. ARSF provides shelter and care for approximately 25 dogs each year and answers hundreds of inquiries for information and assistance.
The purpose of the Akita Rescue Society of Florida is to provide a refuge for unwanted, abandoned, or abused Akitas, and to adopt them into responsible homes. ARSF provides a wide range of services which include:
Many of the Akitas that come into ARSF shelters are turned over by Humane Societies or Animal Control shelters. Others are turned over by their owners or left homeless because of death or illness of their owners. Some are just abandoned.
When an Akita is referred to ARSF we first attempt to locate the owner or breeder and notify them of the situation. If a responsible party cannot be located, the Akita then becomes the property of Akita Rescue. Akitas are evaluated for good health and temperament. Those with incurable health problems or unreliable temperaments are humanely euthanized. Once an Akita passes health and temperament evaluations, it is checked by a veterinarian and is wormed, spayed or neutered and given all vaccinations. The dog is then available for adoption. There is no adoption fee, but the new owner will be required to have items such as a large crate and/or kennel run. Of course, voluntary, tax deductable donations are always appreciated. One of ARSF's most important jobs is follow-up for dogs that have been adopted. If for ANY REASON AND AT ANY TIME the owner finds he or she can no longer keep the dog, it is to be returned to Akita Rescue.