Adopt

Shiba Inu Rescue Association Adoption Process

So you've seen the beautiful, headstrong breed known as the Shiba Inu. You've looked at your living situation and decided that you are ready to open your home to a homeless Shiba. Now the question is, how do you adopt one? Below is SIRA's adoption process explained. Please read all the information as our process may differ from other shelters or rescue organizations you may have looked into adopting from. We currently CANNOT accept applications from people outside of the Midwest region. Our service area includes Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, Arkansas, Kentucky, Tennessee, Oklahoma and Wisconsin.

The first step in adopting a rescue Shiba from SIRA is to fill out our adoption application. This allows us to find out more about you and your family, your living situation and what you are looking for in a forever friend. You must complete all applicable fields in the application and be as detailed as possible. Incomplete applications will be returned for correction. Click HERE to download the application. When you have completed it, please send it in the form of a word document or PDF to adoptsirashibas@gmail.com. No other formats will be accepted and please do not copy and paste the application into an email. If you have any problems or questions do not hesitate to contact us at the above email address.
Once we receive and review your application, we will call and verify your references. All applicants are REQUIRED to provide TWO non-related references that do not reside in your home. These should be people who have been around your pets or are familiar with your pet experience If that is not possible (i.e. you have never owned pets or have not owned any for many years) please provide references who know you well.
If you currently own or have owned pets, you will need to provide us with your most recent veterinarian's information and please contact them to grant permission to release your records to Shiba Inu Rescue Association. Failure to do so will result in a delay of the adoption process.
If you are renting, you will need to provide us with your landlord's information. Please also let us know of any breed/weight/pet restrictions set by your landlord. We will be calling to verifying all information. It might be helpful to let your landlord know we will be contacting them. If we cannot verify that you are allowed to have a dog, it delays the process.
You must be at least 21 years of age to adopt.
Once the application is approved and references are checked, we will find a volunteer to perform your home visit. The volunteer will make arrangements to visit with you in your home. PLEASE NOTE: ALL FAMILY MEMBERS, INCLUDING CHILDREN, MUST BE PRESENT FOR THE ENTIRE HOME VISIT. The home visit gives us the opportunity to discuss with you and your family any issues or potential dangers for the dog (i.e. exposed wires, possible escape issues, etc. ). We can then offer suggestions of how to Shiba-proof your home and management techniques to keep the dog safe and everyone happy. This is also the time for us to find out and discuss with you exactly what your are looking for in a dog, and what will fit best with your family.
Find your forever friend! Once your home visit has been completed and you have been approved to adopt, you may begin the search for your forever friend. Use the email links on the dogs' bio pages to contact the foster families and let them know you are interested in their foster.
Foster families care for the rescued shibas in their home for an average of 6-8 weeks. They evaluate the dogs and find out how they are with adults, children, dogs, cats and other pets if possible. They know how much stimulation and activity their foster dog needs in addition to any training that may be needed in the future.
All potential adopters are required to meet their new dogs in person and resident dogs must meet the foster dog. There is also a 24 hour waiting period before adoption may occur.
If you are not able to adopt the first dog you are interested in, please do not be discouraged. This does not mean you are not a good home for a rescue Shiba, it only means that there was another family who's situation was better for that particular dog. Keep looking and inquire when you see a dog you are interested in. Your perfect match is out there and you will find it. We will help you in the process!

ADOPTION!
Once you have found your perfect match and the foster home has approved you to adopt their foster dog, an adoption day will be arranged. All resident dogs must meet potential new dogs. We require a waiting period as well. Before your forever friend comes home, you will need to be sure you have all the necessary supplies to care for your new Shiba. A Shopping Check List is available for you to use. You will be required to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian within the first 10 days of adoption and provide proof of such check up to the adoption coordinator. The final stop in the process is to sign the adoption contract and pay the adoption fee!

Adoption fees vary depending on the age of the dog:
Puppies under 6 months = $500.00 (Please note - all puppies under 6 months are required to be foster/foster to adopts due to spay/neuter age)
Puppies 6 months to 1 year = $400.00
Adolescent 1-3 years = $350.00
Young Adult 4-6 years = $300.00
Adult 7-9 years = $250.00
Senior 10+ years = $200.00

Shiba Inu Rescue Association reserves the right to deny any applicant at any stage in the adoption process for any reason.

ADOPTABLE DOGS!

SHEENA

Hi! My name is Sheena and I’m looking for my forever home! I’m 8 years old and I weigh 18 lbs. My foster family says I’m a gentle and sweet girl. Up until a few months ago, I made puppies at a commercial breeding facility. Now, I live in Columbus, OH, and I have to say, it’s much nicer here! At first, everything was so strange and new that I was terrified. I’m still getting used to living in a house with humans, so I get spooked easily by sudden movements and loud noises. New people are scary, but sometimes they have treats and that helps me feel brave - I really like treats, especially cheese! When I feel overwhelmed (which happens a lot), I lay in my bed inside my crate. It’s nice and soft and cozy and I can watch what’s happening from my safe spot. Even though I’m pretty skittish, I’m curious and a little bit brave inside. So, when it’s quiet and the coast is clear, I love to explore! On my adventures, find lots of cool stuff. My foster fur-sisters just leave their toys lying around, so I take them one by one and collect them in my crate. You see, I’ve never had “stuff” before, so I can’t help it! I want it all! Even when I’m not sure what to do with it. My favorites are soft toys. I love to snuggle up with them and nibble on them. I’m building a pretty impressive collection. I have toys and towels, blankets, and even a dog brush... Foster mom calls me a “hoarder,” but I think I’m pretty clever and lucky! Besides toys, I also love treats and food! Foster mom and dad gave me a big food bowl and there’s always plenty of good food in it. And I don’t have to share!! I really don’t like to share. I wait until nobody is watching (to make sure I’m safe) and then I eat every bite. My favorite treat is cheese, specifically soft cheese! If I’m feeling really brave, sometimes I will eat cheese out of my foster family’s hands. But of all of the wonderful things here, my favorite is the fenced-in yard where I can run around and play with the other dogs. I don’t play rough, but I love to chase and be chased. Something about a fence, some grass, and a kind friend makes me feel so safe and confident! I’ve been to some places outside of the fence, and I’m not sure how I feel. When I’m outside of the fence, the noises, cars, and people really spook me, but I’m working on getting used to that. One of my biggest accomplishments is being crowned “Best Pottier” by my foster family! I had to beat two other dogs for that award, but I earned it! I like to do my business quickly so I can go back to my safe spot. I’m still working on how to let my foster family know when I need to potty. I’m getting better - I only have an accident once every few weeks now. My perfect forever home will have a securely fenced yard and a nice, gentle dog friend for me to play chase with. Because sharing is still hard for me, my new dog-friend will need to be respectful of my things and my bed, or I’ll tell them pretty firmly to “BACK OFF!” But it’s okay with me if humans touch my things. I’d be fine if my forever home had cats. I really like cats. But the cats here in my foster home aren’t interested in being my friend, so I leave them alone. Foster mom says she’s proud that I never chase them or scare them. Same with the bunnies, skunks, and chipmunks that I see on walks. I just watch from afar. I’m healthy, spayed, and up-to-date on my vaccinations. I’m missing my dew claw and one toe on my front right foot, but it doesn’t bother me! A little while after coming to my foster home, I hurt my knee, so the vet checked me out and gave me some pills. Since then, it’s been good as new! If you live in the Midwest and are interested in bringing me home, the first step is to become an approved adopter with SIRA. Visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt to download an application. The application process helps SIRA get to know you and your home environment so they can match you with dogs like me! Once approved, SIRA will introduce you to my foster mom so we can meet. I can’t wait!

WENDY

I am Wendy and I’m looking for my forever home. I’m 9 years old and a gentle, well-mannered, little lady! I came to SIRA after a life as a breeding mama. When the breeder did not want me anymore, SIRA brought me to my foster home near Minneapolis. Living in a house with people is brand new to me – and kind of scary. There are so many unfamiliar sounds and new things that I’m still cautious and skittish when a loud noise or unexpected movement surprises me. But I’m learning that I like it here! There are so many soft places to nap and a securely fenced yard where I can explore. And OMG there are squirrels! They are fascinating! When I see them in the yard, I stop whatever I’m doing to watch. I like the other dogs in my foster home. They help me feel safe when I snuggle with them. There are cats here too and I’m good with them. I’m still getting used to the humans. They are nice to me and I like to follow them around and watch what they’re doing. When they settle in on the couch to watch TV, sometimes I’ll join them. I don’t get too close, but I do enjoy having them nearby. Foster dad says he can tell that I am starting to relax and show my true Shibatude, because when I really don’t like something, I show my disapproval with a really good Shiba scream! Foster dad says I’m a smart girl. I’m learning to respond to my name and to respond to commands – sometimes (I AM a Shiba afterall). My forever family will need to be experienced with shy, fearful dogs and be patient as I learn to feel safe in my new home. I let my foster dad pick me up, but I still need to learn about going for walks on a leash. I’m healthy, spayed, up-to-date on vaccinations, and I weigh about 19 pounds. My forever home will need to have a securely fenced yard for me to play in. Like many Shibas, I’ve shown signs of being a door-bolter and escape-artist, so my forever family will need to be vigilant when they open doors and supervise me carefully outside. My ideal forever home will have another nice dog to help me adjust and come out of my shell. Cats would be okay too. I’ve met some little humans, and I’d be okay if my forever family had gentle kids that are not too little or too high-energy. But most of all, my forever family will need to be able to give me time and love while I adjust. If you can do that, I will be a sweet and loving addition to your life. If you live in the Midwest, visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt to become an approved adopter. The application process helps SIRA learn more about you and your home environment so they can tell if we might be a good match. Once approved, SIRA can connect you with my foster dad, so we can meet. foster mom, so we can meet.

JOTARO

My name is Jotaro and I’m looking for my forever home. I was found as a stray and brought to a shelter where I stayed while the staff tried to find my owners. When nobody claimed me, the shelter contacted SIRA, thinking I was a Shiba Inu. SIRA brought me to my foster home in Indiana, where I live now. I got checked out at the vet and they say I am a healthy boy. They think I’m around 7 or 8 years old and I weigh around 40 pounds. I am neutered, house and crate-trained, and up-to-date on vaccinations. Even though I act and look kind-of like a Shiba, SIRA wanted to know for sure, so they got my DNA tested and found out my secret! I’m actually a New Guinea Singing Dog! Singers are Most Singers behave quite differently than typical dogs. We are an ancient breed like Shibas that came from wolves originally. But while the Shiba Inu breed was developed in Japan, Singers come from the Island of New Guinea. We are related to the Australian Dingo and pretty special and unusual – so special that you can sometimes find Singers in a Zoo. But SIRA thinks I’ve lived in a home with humans and other animals before, because of how well I’ve adapted. I’d rather be in a home with a family that loves me and knows how to keep me happy and safe. As you might have guessed, Singers got their name because we sing! When I sing, it’s more musical than a howl and certainly much prettier and more polite than a Shiba scream (video in the comments). I like it here at my foster home. I’m not really into playing and I’m not much of a cuddler, but I like being close to my foster family. My favorite thing to do is to find a soft, comfy place to curl up and hang out. My foster mom and dad are really nice to me. They call me Jojo and love me like part of the family. I’m cautious and apprehensive and shy, and I tend to startle easily, but once I get to know you, I’m also very affectionate and love to give kisses. There are other dogs here and I’m good with the 3 boy dogs, who are pretty submissive and easy-going. There is a girl dog here too, but she’s kind of bossy and I am not so fond of her dominance. My best friend here is a cat! Now, that’s unusual for a Singer, but I like her the best. She is used to dogs and she gets me – I like being near her, but I also like my personal space. There are three human kids here too and we get along well. I haven’t been around really little kids (younger than 9) since coming here. Foster mom says I’m smart and curious. My favorite places to explore are the tabletops and counter tops where the humans keep really interesting (and sometimes yummy) stuff. My perfect forever family will be calm and attentive. It would be ideal if they are familiar with New Guinea Singing Dogs or with other ancient breeds. I’d do well with moderately active adults who like to go for walks and I’d enjoy having older kids around as long as they are respectful and give me my space when I need it. If you have another dog who is laid back, friendly, and respectful, that might be just fine. I’m not the kind of dog that is good off leash. Like Shibas, Singers are very independent and have a high prey drive – and lousy recall, so all it takes is a bunny or squirrel or a blowing leaf to catch our eye, and we’re gone! If my forever home has a fenced yard, it’s super important that it be very secure, with a high fence that I can’t climb or jump of gaps that I can squeeze through. While I haven’t tried to break out of my foster home, Singers (like Shibas) are really amazing escape artists and my forever family will need to commit to supervising me when I'm outside. I do best on a consistent diet since my tummy can get sensitive with too many changes. If you live in the Midwest and are interested in me, the next step is to apply to become an approved adopter with SIRA. Visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt for more information and to download the application forms. The application helps SIRA learn more about you and your home environment so they can tell if we might be a good match! Once you’re approved, SIRA can introduce you to my foster mom and dad so we can meet.

SAMMIE

My name is Sammie. I’m a happy, energetic and sweet, cuddly puppy who just wants a forever family of my very own. I’m almost 1 year old and I’m a Shiba-Poodle mix (a Shiboodle?). I was born at a commercial breeding facility, where I lived until SIRA came and rescued me and my siblings. SIRA brought me to live at my foster home outside of Chicago. I was so scared at first, but it’s really nice here, so I’m not scared anymore. My foster family are gentle and kind to me and I have good food to eat and toys to play with and comfy, warm places to sleep. There’s even another nice dog here to keep me company. I love to run and jump and to play fetch with my foster family. I also love getting my harness and leash on and going for a walk. Foster mom says I have amazing agility and I’d make a great running buddy. When I finally get my puppy energy out, my favorite things to do are working on a good chew stick or curling up in my foster mom’s arms like a little baby. She’ll rub my ears and my belly and that feels so good! Foster mom says I’m smart! I’m learning new things every day like “sit” and “leave it” and I’m working on “stay.” I’ve still got a lot to learn (like that foster mom doesn’t like it when I chew on her shoes), but positive reinforcement and some treats sure help me learn! I sleep in my crate at night and for naps. I don’t mind it, but sometimes it takes some coaxing to get me in. I’m a healthy girl. I weigh about 16 pounds and am spayed and up-to-date on vaccinations. I’m working on potty training and am starting to get the hang of sitting by the door to tell my foster family when I need to go out. But sometimes I forget, so my foster family keeps me on a schedule. My foster family is also helping me learn that I don’t need to be so scared of humans. I’m curious about them, but I came from a place where the humans were scary, so I bark and growl at people who I don’t know. I’m not mean – I am just making sure they keep their distance! But I’m starting to figure out that some people are nice and give me treats! I’m a good foster sister to the 7-year-old human boy who lives here. I haven’t been around younger kids yet but I’d probably be scared of them – at least at first. I don’t know how I would do with other kinds of animals since I haven’t had the chance to be around them yet. So my forever family should be patient, since I’m still a crazy puppy and be ready to continue teaching me things. My perfect forever home will have a securely fenced yard for me to run and play in. The fence should be pretty high since I am a really good jumper! I’m good with other dogs – especially when they want to play with me, so I’d love it if my forever family had another nice dog at home. If my forever home has kids, they should be old enough to understand how to help a scared dog adjust. It may take time for me to feel comfortable in a new place, so it would be helpful if my forever family is gentle and gives me the time I need to feel safe. If you are, I’ll be your very best girl, I promise! So if you live in the Midwest and want to me my forever family, then the best next step is to visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt. You can learn more there and download the application to become approved to adopt from SIRA. The application process helps SIRA learn more about you and your home environment so they can make sure we’ll be a good match. Once approved, they can introduce you to my foster family so we can meet.

KIOKO

My name is Kioko and I’m looking for my forever home. I’m 3 years old and I am 24 lbs. of pure love! I lived at a commercial breeding facility until recently, when SIRA came to rescue me. They brought me to my foster home here in St. Louis, MO. Everything about my foster home was new and kind of scary because I had never lived in a home with humans before. There are two other Shibas here in my foster home and I like them. I watch what they do and how they feel and that has helped me feel comfortable here. There are two cats here also, and I don’t bother them at all or even pay much attention to them. They have chew toys here to play with and I like to chew on them. But my favorite thing here is my foster mom. I had no idea that people could be so kind and gentle and fun! I’m so happy when I’m with her that I bombard her with kisses and I like to follow her around. There is a 11-year-old human boy in my foster home too and I like him. My foster dad seems like a nice guy, but I’m still cautious of him since he’s a big guy and his heavier footsteps and deep voice are still kinda scary to me. I get lots of good food here, which has helped me put on a bit of weight. I was really skinny when I got here and my ribs were showing. But I’ve learned to come running as soon as foster mom calls me for a snack, so I am a much healthier weight now. I’m a good girl in my foster home and have never had an accident. I’m crate trained, but I don’t need to be crated overnight or when foster mom and dad leave the house. I’ve had some adventures since coming to my foster home. Foster mom takes me out hiking sometimes, and that is fun. We’ve gone for car rides and I had something called a bath. I wasn’t sure what to think about all of that water and all of that soap, but foster mom said that I did a really good job. We go for walks together sometimes too, where I get to see and smell so many new things! It can be scary when we see other humans out on our walks – I am just not sure I can trust them. My biggest adventure happened one night when I was outside in the yard. I got curious (I am a Shiba after all) and decided I’d like to check out what might be on the other side of the fence in my foster home’s yard. It’s a tall fence – about 6-feet high – but I knew I could climb it because I’m fast and a good climber. So when foster dad turned his back for a second, I scampered over the fence! That was exciting and scary too! Foster mom and dad were really worried and upset that I was out there on my own. Thankfully, before I could get really lost or into trouble, they were able to find me and step on the end of the light-weight drag leash that I wear so that stopped me in my tracks. That night, I curled up in bed with my foster mom. It felt good to be back inside where it is nice and safe and cozy. My perfect forever family will be one that likes to go for leash walks, since I can’t be trusted alone even in a securely fenced yard. It will be good if my forever family is experienced with dogs that can be escape-artists and are very careful opening doors and always keep an eye on me when we’re outside. Foster mom thinks I’d do well in an apartment or in a house. I’m spayed, up-to-date on vaccinations, and healthy. I’m good with other dogs and cats and it would be okay if my forever home had older kids who can be gentle and respectful of a shy dog like me. But what I’d really, really love in my forever home is a best friend. If you live in the Midwest and think you might want a best friend like me, the first step is to visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt and download the application to become an approved adopter. The application process helps SIRA learn more about you and your home environment so they can tell if we might be a good match. Once approved, SIRA can connect you with my foster mom, so we can meet.

OBI

Update - Adoption Pending! My name is Obi and I’m looking for my forever home! I’m 8 years old and I lived most of my life at a commercial breeding facility helping to make puppies. But that life is behind me now. I have adjusted to “retirement” here in Michigan pretty well and I’ve gotten used to the noises and routines of living in a home with humans. I’m a pretty laid-back, independent guy most of the time. I can be shy with people I don’t know at first. I like my space and can sometimes come across as pretty aloof. But if there’s a thunderstorm, all bets are off! I will forget all about being cool and crawl into your lap for comfort and protection. Seriously, I do like to cuddle up with my humans for a pet or a nice butt scratch. My favorite things to do are to go for walks and car rides. I also like to play ball – I even know how to fetch! I can go from snoozing to being a crazy playful puppy in seconds, but that kind of energy comes in short spurts. Pretty soon I’m back to my nap. I’m curious about new things and love to explore. Sometimes that gets me in trouble, like when I root through the trash or pull Tupperware out of the cabinets. But if you play ball with me or give me some fun toys to chew on, that’ll keep me happy. I’d love to have a securely fenced yard to play in at my forever home, but if you don’t have that, I’ll be content going for leash walks or if you have a yard I can explore on a tie-out. I’d love it if you have another nice dog that I can play with, but I’m also okay by myself. I have not lived with a cat before, but chances are, I’d want to chase them. I haven’t lived with little kids, but I might be too rough for really little ones. I sometimes paw at people when I want their attention. My favorite places to sleep are inside closets or other enclosed spaces, so if you have a special nook or hidey hole that can be my man cave, I’d be so happy! I’ve got a pretty high prey-drive, which is typical for Shibas, and my forever family will need to be careful when they open doors to the outside since I might slip out if given the chance. I’m a healthy boy – I’m neutered and up to date on vaccinations and weigh about 35 pounds. I’m potty trained, but I don’t always tell somebody when I need to go potty, so you’ll want to keep me on a schedule so I don’t have accidents. I’m currently living in the Lake Odessa, Michigan area. If you live in the Midwest and want a buddy to play ball with you and go for walks and car rides together, then I’m your boy! The first step is to become approved to adopt from SIRA. Visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt to download the application. Applying helps SIRA learn more about you and your home environment so they can confirm that we’ll be a good match. Once approved, SIRA can arrange for us to meet.

CUPCAKE

My name is Cupcake and I’m looking for my forever home. I’m 2 years old and weigh 18 pounds. Like my name suggests, I’m a sweet treat in a small package. I came to SIRA from a commercial breeding facility, so living in a home with humans is brand new to me. Pretty much everything about this new life is scary at first – so many sounds and smells and experiences! Sometimes it’s all so overwhelming that all I want to do is hide. And I’ve got my special spot in my foster home where I go when I need to feel safe. But after a while, my curiosity gets the better of me and I venture back out to explore. I’m having fun checking out all of the spaces and things in my foster home. I feel a bit more confident and relaxed each day. My foster home here in Omaha has other dogs, which really helps me. I can see that they’re relaxed and happy, so it makes me feel less scared. And they have been showing me how things work here and teaching me how to play. Foster mom says she’s proud of me for being such a brave girl and a good girl too. Even though humans still scare me, I’m gentle and not hard to handle. I’ve never shown any signs of aggression to other dogs or even to the cats here in my foster home. I’m a smart girl too and am learning quickly. I have learned all about meal times and going outside for potty breaks and haven’t had any accidents at all inside. My foster mom says that with time and love and patience, I’m going to be someone’s perfect little best friend. I don’t know what that means, but it sure sounds nice. My perfect forever home will be a quieter, calm environment with patient humans who understand that it takes time for a shy dog like me to adapt. I’d love to have another nice dog to keep me company and to be friends with and to learn from. It will be important for my forever home to have a securely fenced yard. I’m learning how to walk on a leash, but going out into the world is still really scary for me right now. I’d do best in a home with no small kids since sudden movements and loud noises spook me. Because I’m still pretty skittish, my forever home should be really careful around open doors and in fenced yards, since I might bolt. The vet says I’m a healthy girl, and I am spayed, microchipped, and up-to-date on vaccinations. I’m being fostered in Omaha, NE, so if you live in the Midwest and are interested in me, the next step is to visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt to apply to become approved as an adopter with SIRA. The application process helps SIRA learn more about you and your home environment so they can make sure we’d be a good match. Once approved, they can connect you with my foster mom so we can meet.

JADA

My name is Jada and I’m looking for my forever home! I’m 4 years old and a little pixie, weighing only about 16 pounds. I'm spayed, healthy, and up-to-date on vaccinations. I came to my foster home here in Union, OH, from a commercial breeding facility where it was my job to make puppies. I wasn’t sure what to expect at first, but I think I won the lottery with this new life! The people here are so kind and fun and they give me such yummy things to eat and they play with me and pet me. Oh my gosh, the petting! I love it so much that I wish they would never, ever stop! When my foster mom comes into the room, I get so happy that I jump all over and wag my tail. She says I’m a ham. When I meet new people, I feel shy at first until I figure out what they are like, but if they’re nice like my foster mom, then I’m happy to make a new friend. Foster mom says I’m a good girl. I am brave and calm in the bathtub and when visiting the vet. I My foster home has a fenced yard and I love going outside to play. My favorite thing to do is to run around with my Lambchop toy. I never had toys before and they are so much fun! Because I’m so small, I can stick my head between the fence pickets in the yard and I actually got my head stuck once (okay, a few times). So my forever home will need to make sure that they seal up even small gaps and be careful when opening and closing doors so I don’t sneak outside. It’s not that I’m trying to run away – I’m just so curious about everything out here in this big new world. There is another dog here at my foster home and that’s okay, but sometimes I worry that he might steal my food or my toys. So I stand up for myself and growl to warn him to keep away from my stuff. Sometimes I growl at the other dogs I see on walks if I’m not sure what they’re going to do. Foster mom thinks that I could get accustomed to living with another dog, if they were laid-back and respectful. But I think I’d be happiest to be the only dog in my forever home as long as my forever family will play with me and pet me and do things with me. I’ve got a lot of energy, so I’d love to have humans who like to be active. My foster mom thinks I’d be good with human kids, especially ones that are old enough to know how to be respectful and gentle with me as I adjust to a new home. I haven’t met any cats, so I’m not sure how I’d be with them. So if you live in the Midwest and are looking for a true friend and family member like me, the first step is to visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt and download the application to become an approved adopter. The application process helps SIRA learn more about you and your home environment so they can tell if we might be a good match. Once approved, SIRA can connect you with my foster mom, so we can meet.

KURI

My name is Kuri and I’m looking for my forever home! I am 4 years old, weigh about 25 lbs. and I’m healthy, spayed and up-to-date on my vaccinations. Until recently, I lived at a commercial breeding facility making puppies. SIRA rescued me and brought me to my foster home in Chicago. At first, everything was so scary and strange, but I think I like this new life! There is so much to explore! I’m cautious, but also curious. When I feel overwhelmed, there are warm, quiet, cozy places where I can take a break. I like watching out of windows to see what’s happening outside. My foster mom is kind and gentle and gives me chin and neck scratches that feel so good! And sometimes I get cheese! I didn’t know something could taste so good! But my favorite thing is when foster mom puts on my harness and leash and we go for walks. I’m a good girl - I mind my own business and don’t bother passing dogs or people. I’m a happy girl and very laid back. But there are a few things that I’m not very fond of. Loud noises and sudden quick movements spook me and it makes me nervous when someone pets me on my rump. And I don’t like being left alone. That makes me scared and lonely so sometimes I cry and howl. My perfect forever home would be with someone who has time to spend helping me continue to adapt to being a treasured pet. Maybe you work from home or spend lots of time at home. I’d be so happy if my forever human likes to take walks! I’m doing a good job with potty training. I am almost there, but my forever family will need to keep me on a regular schedule. My forever family should be patient and ready to help me continue to adapt to a new life. It would be okay if my forever home had another nice dog – I get along with dogs, but I don’t engage with them very much. What I really want is a human of my very own to love me and who wants a best friend like me. If you live in the Midwest, visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt to start the process to become an approved adopter. The application process helps SIRA learn more about you and your home environment so they can tell if we might be a good match. Once approved, SIRA can connect you with my foster mom, so we can meet.

HEIDI

Update - Adoption Pending! My name is Heidi and I'm looking for my forever home. I'm 8 years old, but my foster mom says I act more like a happy, fun-loving puppy. I guess I'm making up for lost time since I spent my first 8 years at a commercial breeding facility. I've only been in foster care for a short time, but I'm loving this new life! The people here are so nice and there are other dogs to play with and a yard outside where I can run around and investigate all of the noises and smells. I'm just so happy to be free! I love getting attention from humans and from other dogs. I'll approach you with my tail wagging and a big smile on my face. I've got plenty of energy and curiosity. I'd love to find a forever home where the humans have time to pet me and spend time with me. I'd love to have a securely fenced yard. I'm a really good girl - I promise - but foster mom says that I need to fess up that one of the ways that I act like a puppy is by swiping things and chewing on things that I'm not supposed to. Yes, I've shredded toilet paper and I may have brought remote controls and a shoe or two out to the yard to play with, but c'mon - how am I supposed to know what's a toy and what's not a toy? I'm new to all of this, remember? My foster mom just laughs. She says I'm smart and sassy - a typical Shiba. But I guess my forever home will need to be patient as I learn and will need to keep an eye on me and keep non-toy things out of my reach. Oh. And my reach is pretty long, actually. I'm learning all about things called counter tops that I can reach if I try hard. There are amazing prizes up there sometimes like bags of bread! When I'm not making mischief, I'm a pretty easy-going girl. I like hanging out with my foster fur-brothers. I'd love it if my forever home had a nice dog or two for me to play with. I'm not spooked by loud noises like thunderstorms. I might bark at things like Fireworks and delivery people, but I calm down once the danger has passed. I've been learning about leash walking. I do pretty well, though I'm still getting used to how the harness feels on my body, and I'm much more comfortable doing my business in the yard. Unlike many Shibas, I haven't tried to sneak out of the front door or out of the yard, but my forever home should carefully monitor me and use safeguards indoors like baby gates since I'm very curious. I am housebroken, but am fine being in my crate or in an ex-pen when my foster family is sleeping or out of the house, so I don't get into trouble. I am healthy, and foster mom has an appointment to get my teeth checked soon. I'm spayed, up-to-date on my vaccinations, and I weigh 21 pounds. I'm being fostered in the Omaha, NE, area. So if you live in the midwest and want a happy-go-lucky, fun, affectionate girl like me to be part of your family, the first step is to become an approved adopter with SIRA. Visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt for more information and to download the application. Applying helps SIRA learn more about you and your home environment so they can confirm that we'd be a good match. Once approved, they'll introduce you to my foster mom so we can meet!

MARGIE

My name is Margie and I’m looking for my forever home. I am about 7 years old and came to SIRA after someone found me all alone with no ID or microchip to indicate where I belonged. They brought me to a shelter thinking that my family would come claim me, but nobody did. So SIRA came and got me and brought me to my foster home in Minnesota. I’m a healthy girl, weighing 22 pounds. I’ve had puppies before, and I have some scars from my early days, but they are all healed. I like my foster home. I’m not scared or skittish around of the new sounds and smells here. I am very curious about everything and love to explore. I also like to look out of the windows and watch what’s happening outside. I make sure to let my foster mom know if there’s something going on outside that concerns me. The people here are so nice to me. I love affection and getting petted. It makes me feel so good! I wag my tail to let my foster family know how happy I am to see them. I like being near my foster family, but I am not clingy. I love it when they throw the ball for me so I can chase it and Foster mom is teaching me a game called “fetch.” There are toys here too and I love to play with them. And the treats! I love treats! Foster mom gives me treats when I do things that she asks me to do like “sit” and when I go into my crate after she tosses a treat inside. She says that I’m a smart girl and eager to learn. She also says that I’m a good girl too. I’m quiet and calm in the car and in my crate and I’ve never once had an accident in the house. I sleep all night in my crate without any fuss, except for the occasional doggie dream. I don’t mind it at all when foster mom handles me and picks me up. I enjoy playing outside and going for walks. I want to chase all of the critters I see, so foster mom has to keep a strong grip on my leash. I also like to run and play outside in the fenced yard. What I don’t like so far are other dogs – they make me uncomfortable. Even my own reflection! I bark at them and tell them to stay away when I see them outside and I’m also reactive to the other dogs here in my foster home. My foster mom is working with a professional trainer to help me feel more comfortable around other dogs, but she also thinks that I would be happiest as an only dog. I haven’t met any cats or small kids here yet, but foster mom thinks that I would probably enjoy older kids. My perfect forever home would have a securely fenced yard where I could run and play when I get the zoomies. My forever family should be prepared to help me work on being so reactive to other dogs. I’m spayed and vaccinated and I have had a bit of dental work done since coming into rescue. My forever family will need to be attentive when they open doors to the outside, since I might decide that I want to go out too. They should also be careful with house plants, since I like to nibble on them. Most of all, my forever family should know that will always be happy to see you and will greet you with a wagging tail. So if you live in the Midwest and are looking for a true friend and family member like me, the first step is to visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt and download the application to become an approved adopter. The application process helps SIRA learn more about you and your home environment so they can tell if we might be a good match. Once approved, SIRA can connect you with my foster mom, so we can meet.

ERIE

My name is Erie and I’m looking for my forever home! I’m 6 years old and came to SIRA from a commercial breeding facility. I’m a healthy girl (spayed and up to date on vaccinations) and weigh 22 lbs. I’m being fostered in the Findlay, OH area. Because I’ve never lived in a home with people before, I’m still getting used to things. U unexpected movements and unfamiliar noises still spook me. I’m also getting used to trusting humans. My foster family is so nice to me, but I’m still pretty shy and skittish, especially around men. I still get jumpy and bolt if someone gets up from the couch and I’m not expecting it. But foster mama says that I’m a real sweetheart! I am the first one to greet her with a smile and a tail wag in the morning and when she comes home. And I don’t show any aggression to people. I’m gentle with little humans too. I’ve got to say, I think I’m starting to get the hang of this new life. I’ve learned that if I approach my foster mom she’ll pet me! I like how it feels, but I’m a little too shy to let her rub my belly yet. I do give her little kisses on the top of her head when she bends down to show her that I like her. Foster mom says I’m really smart and very curious, so I figure out how to maneuver things to get what I want. I love going for walks outside. Like many Shibas, I’d love to chase all of the critters outside, but I’m learning to just stop and watch them when we’re out on a walk instead of trying to catch them. I like going outside so much that whenever anyone goes to the door, I think it must be time for me to go too. So, my forever family will need to be very careful when coming and going to keep me from getting loose. I’m a little sneaky sometimes and have figured out how to get around the dog gate if it isn’t set up just right, so it will be good if my forever home is always on guard and has plenty of fail-safes so I can’t escape. But don’t let my Shiba-tude mislead you. I’m a very good girl! I have never had an accident in the house and I tolerate baths with no complaints. I am not one of those Shibas that jumps all over the furniture either. I’m happy being a “floor dog.” Even if I get scared by thunder or fireworks, I will come into the bedroom for refuge, but I’m not interested in being on the bed. I’m also a good girl when my foster family is away at work. I’d love to have an active forever family who will take me out on lots of long walks and hikes. Having a fenced yard would be nice for days when we can’t go for walks to help me burn off energy. It would be great if my forever family had another nice dog who could help show me the ropes and teach me how to play and how to be a pet. I’ve never lived with a cat or other small pets, but foster mom isn’t sure that would be a good idea since I like to chase the critters outside. It would be good to have a very patient forever family who can understand that it is going to take a while for me to learn how to be comfortable and confident in this new life. If you have experience with fearful, skittish dogs, that would be best. If you can give me time and patience and some training, I promise I’ll be a wonderful addition to your life. If you live in the Midwest and are interested in a smart, pretty girl like me, visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt to start the application process to become an approved SIRA adopter. Applying helps SIRA learn more about you so they can learn if we’ll be a good match. Once approved, SIRA will introduce you to my foster mom so we can meet.

SASHA

Hi, my name is Sasha and I’m looking for my forever home. I’m five years old and my foster family says I’m a sweetheart! Until recently, I lived in a home with a family, but they decided that they couldn’t care for me any longer. A really nice lady took me in and helped me get to my foster home. So, a bit more about me: I’m pretty nervous and shy and cautious around people who I don’t know. But if you’re patient with me and help me build trust (and give me hot dogs), I’ll be your best girl. Some things I love include being outside. I love to hang out in the securely fenced yard at my foster home and play with the other dogs in my foster home. What’s even better is when foster mom takes me for a walk! I love exploring. And I love hot dogs! But more on that later… I like my foster home and get excited when my foster parents come back home, even though I still play hard-to-get when they want to pet me. I’m pretty laid-back when I’m indoors. I’m a very good girl. I’m house-trained and don’t even jump up on the furniture (even though my foster family says it’s okay). I like to sit in front of the TV and take a nap, or even go down the hall to the bedroom to get some alone time. My wish list for my forever home would include humans who are patient and gentle with me to help me not feel so scared. I will need at least one other nice dog to play with, and a securely fenced yard to play in. I’d love to have a quiet home without small kids… but with lots and LOTS of hot dogs!! Did I mention that I like hot dogs? Yeah. I REALLY like hot dogs!! I weigh about 25 lbs and am healthy and spayed and up-to-date on vaccinations. I’m being fostered in the Madison, WI area. If you live in the Midwest and would like to be my forever home, the next step is to visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt to start the process of becoming approved to adopt. Just download the application that will help SIRA learn more about you to see if we might be a good match. Once you’re approved, SIRA can introduce you to my foster family so we can meet.

MISTY

My name is Misty and I’m looking for my forever home. I came to SIRA after someone found me all alone and brought me to a shelter. After nobody claimed me, SIRA brought me to my foster home here in Dorchester, Iowa. I’m a young girl – about 1 or 2 years old – and I’m a spunky little firecracker! I’ve got lots of energy and I’m brave and confident – not skittish or scared of the things that Shibas are often spooked by. I love my foster family! I like to play with them, especially tug of war. There are fun toys here and a big fenced yard where I can run, run, run! I also like to snuggle on the couch with them and give my foster humans lots of kisses. There are human kids here, and I’m good with them, but sometimes get in their face, but I don’t mean any harm. Sometimes I play a bit rough and get bossy with the other dogs here. Foster mom says I come on a bit too strong and that I need to work on my manners, ‘cause I don’t always listen when it’s time to back off. Hrmph! I beg to differ! I just know what I like and am not afraid to go after it! Sure, so I sometimes pull on the leash. And okay, sometimes I am crabby and grouchy with my foster fur-siblings. But I’m young and still learning. And I’m not a morning dog, either! I’m smart, though – and very treat motivated, so that helps me learn. I’m potty trained, spayed, vaccinated, and healthy and I weigh 18 pounds. I have been a good girl around the cats in my foster home. I mostly leave them alone ‘cause I’ve learned that they don’t want to play with me and aren’t much fun. Foster mom thinks I’d probably want to chase little critters if I had the chance. My perfect forever home will be with people who will commit to spending time with me, playing in a securely fenced yard or taking walks and runs. My forever humans will need to spend time teaching me and training me so I can channel my puppy energy appropriately and become a well-adjusted adult. I’d do best as an only dog until I can learn to be respectful. And my forever family will need to be careful around open doors to make sure I don’t decide to take myself out for an un-authorized tour. If you can do these things, I’ll promise to be your very best girl and love you forever! If you live in the Midwest and think you might want a best friend like me, the first step is to visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt and download the application to become an approved adopter. The application process helps SIRA learn more about you and your home environment so they can tell if we might be a good match. Once approved, SIRA can connect you with my foster mom, so we can meet.