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. Please click HERE to complete the application. If you have any problems or questions do not hesitate to contact us at adoptsirashibas@gmail.com.
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 and are based on the age of the dog when they entered foster care:
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!

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. My adoption fee is $250.00.

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. My adoption fee is $250.00.

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. My adoption fee is $400.00.

LILY

My name is Lily and I’m looking for my forever home. I’m 2 years old and until a few months ago, I lived in a commercial breeding facility. But that changed when SIRA rescued me and brought me to my foster home in Sussex, WI. I was so scared at first – everything was so new and strange - but I’m realizing that this new life is really pretty wonderful! I’m a quiet, shy, gentle girl. I’m still skittish, especially around sudden movements and unfamiliar noises and people. I’m still getting used to this whole new concept that humans can be kind and gentle. I may be a bit reserved and aloof like Shibas can be, but once I get to know you, I’ll enjoy snuggling up beside you and getting pets and skritches. I’m pretty laid back indoors and love to spend time relaxing and napping. But I’ve also got a playful, silly side. I like to run and jump and roll around and play with the other dogs outside in the fenced yard at my foster home. Foster mom says I’m very tolerant of others. I also like going for leash walks – I’m so excited at first that I pull at first, but then I settle down and strut along nicely. As I get more confident and curious venturing outside on leash walks, I enjoy saying hello to the other dogs that we pass. The people we meet still scare me, but I’m learning that having my foster mom and dad right there helps me feel safe and more brave. I am learning all about treats here in my foster home. Sometimes I spit them out at first before examining them more closely. Cheese is my favorite, and my foster mom says that I’m such a good girl for taking treats very gently. I’ve started discovering peanut butter! My foster mom lets me lick a bit of it off of her finger! I like chewing on toys… and also things like credit cards… if it’s in my reach and might be fun to chew. So it will be good for my forever family to keep things that aren’t chew toys out of my reach. And I also enjoy redecorating my foster home. I move blankets and toys around from room to room around the house. But even with my interest in interior decorating, I am a good girl in the house, even when left alone for up to 8 hours. I’m potty trained – and proud to say I’ve had no accidents in the house! I’ve learned to make a little whimper sound when I need something. I’m tolerant of baths and nail trims and am a healthy girl, weighing 22 pounds. I’m spayed and up-to-date on vaccinations. My perfect forever home will be a quiet, calm environment with no small kids – loud stuff scares me too much! I’d do best with another nice dog to keep me company and to play with. I also like cats - there is one here in my foster home and we get along well. I’d do best with a securely fenced yard to run and play in and with a family who will be gentle and patient with me as I continue to learn what it means to live in a home with humans. If you live in the Midwest and want a gentle and sweet little Lily like me to be your companion, visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt to start the process to become approved to adopt through 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, SIRA will introduce you to my foster mom and dad so we can meet! My adoption fee is $350.00

MARY

Update - Adoption pending! My name is Mary and I’m looking for my forever home. I was born last July in a commercial breeding facility and SIRA rescued me after the breeder decided they didn’t want me anymore. Coming to my foster home here in Chicago was a BIG adjustment. I’d never seen a city before and there are so many strange new things here. But foster mom says I’m so smart and have learned quickly and she’s proud of how quickly I’ve adapted. Like when we go out for walks, the honking horns, trains, and cars passing by don’t spook me like they did at first. I guess I’m just naturally curious, because I love to explore almost everything around me. New people are still scary to me and I am pretty cautious and skittish around strangers and sudden movements. One thing that helps me is my foster brother. He’s an 11-year old Shiba and very wise and I love him and so I watch what he does and how he feels and learn from him. I would love to have another nice dog in my forever home to help me continue to learn about how to grow up to be a well-behaved, happy and confident pup. I love to play with stuffed toys here in my foster home and to chase tennis balls. I’d love it if my forever home had a securely fenced yard for me to run and play in. But I also love going for leash walks – basically anything outside. My forever home should be prepared to keep me safe while I’m on leash with something called double-leashing. Foster mom clips a leash to my collar and one to my harness for an extra layer of safety in case I get spooked because Shibas are really good at backing out of collars and harnesses if they’re not securely fitted (and because if we do get loose, Shibas tend to run and explore and not come back when we’re called). I may be a typical willful, stubborn Shiba puppy, but I’m a good girl, I promise! I’m house trained and crate trained and love to hang out in my kennel – it’s my cozy den! I haven’t experienced kids yet or met any cats. I’m spayed and healthy and up-to-date on my vaccinations and right now I weigh about 19 pounds. 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 to download the forms. 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, SIRA will introduce you to my foster mom so we can meet! My adoption fee is $500.00.

JADA

Update - Adoption pending! 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. My adoption fee is $300.00.

MARVIN

My name is Marvin and I’m looking for my forever home! I’m a young Husky-Shiba mix – about 1 ½ years old – and I was found outside all alone and brought to a shelter. I wasn’t very happy in the shelter, so SIRA rescued me and brought me to my foster home in Omaha, NE, where things are much less stressful. I weigh about 40 pounds and that Husky side of my genes is very strong. My foster mom says that I’m a big old goofy clown! I’m talkative and energetic like a Husky and love being outside. And I also love to rough-house and jump and play hard like Huskies and Shibas do. Like Huskies, I love being part of a pack and being near my humans. But I’m leery of strangers at first. When I first meet someone, it takes me a while to know that I can trust them and feel comfortable with them touching me. Nothing personal, but I’ve been burned before and need to protect myself. My foster mom figured me out right away and gave me time and space (she had me drag a lightweight leash at first). But once I realize that you’re kind and gentle, then I’ll never want to leave your side! I love getting affection and will lay in your lap and snuggle up next to you. I’m a smart boy and am very good at following commands, so agility training or something similar might be really fun for me. I am a very good boy. I’m potty trained and I go into my kennel when foster mom needs to leave the house (it helps that foster mom gives me special treats when I do, so I love kennel time!). I let her clip my nails and take things out of my mouth and put my harness on and off with no worries now that I know I’m safe. At night, I sleep in bed with foster mom and that really helped me feel like I belong. Unlike most Shibas, I have excellent recall skills and would do great with humans who want to continue to work with me on training and manners. I love being outside – going for long walks and hikes or runs. I’d also love running and playing in a securely fenced yard (6-foot fence recommended, since I can jump!). My perfect forever home will be with adults who are confident and experienced with reactive dogs like me. I like being with other dogs – especially dogs who are non-reactive and similar in size to me. I might act dominant or bossy at first until I feel comfortable with them. I don’t do well with cats or other small pets. My foster mom says that I shouldn’t live with little kids because I don’t always have the best manners. I can be reactive and mouthy and sometimes jump up. If you live in the Midwest and are interested in a handsome young boy like me, the first step is to visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt to start the application process to become an approved adopter. The application helps SIRA get to know you and your home environment so they can understand if we might be a good match. Once approved, SIRA can introduce you to my foster mom so we can meet! My adoption fee is $350.00.

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 Omaha, NE. 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. My adoption fee is $250.00.

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. My adoption fee is $300.00.

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. My adoption fee is $300.00.

MISTY

Update - Adoption Pending! 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. My adoption fee is $350.00.

LASKA

My name is Laska and I’m looking for my forever home. I just turned 4 years old and until recently I lived at a commercial breeding facility. But when the breeder didn’t want me anymore, SIRA rescued me and brought me to my foster home in Munster, Indiana. I’m a gentle, calm girl and my foster parents say that I’m as sweet as I can be. I’m a healthy girl. I’m spayed, up-to-date on my vaccinations and I weigh about 20 pounds. I’m still getting used to living in a home with humans and I’m still a bit shy and skittish and I startle easily when there are loud noises or unexpected movements. But as I get used to this new life, I am starting to realize that I can relax and enjoy myself. There are other dogs here in my foster home and I love to cuddle up next to them. Being close to them makes me feel safe and warm. The other dogs are also teaching me how to play and I’m starting to get the hang of it! Having another nice, calm dog in my forever home will help me continue to adapt to my new world and learn what being a treasured pet is all about. Besides, I don’t like being all alone. The other place where I feel safe is in my crate. I like to spend time there since it’s my own cozy little hidey hole. Even though I’m shy, I’m very curious and like to explore. I’m always exploring the fence in our yard to see if there are gaps or holes big enough for me to squeeze through, so my forever family will need to be very careful to secure their fenced yard and supervise me carefully when I’m outside and around any open doors. Foster mom says I’m a smart cookie because I’ve been learning commands even before they teach me! I’m learning that it’s safe to approach these humans because they are kind and gentle to me. And if I do approach them, they’ll pet me and give me head scratches, and that feels nice! I haven’t met any cats yet. I have seen a few human kids, but mostly from a distance. I’m not sure if I would like them or if they would scare me. So if you want to be my forever home, any kids at home should be able to understand how to be gentle and respectful and give me space if I’m scared or shy. If you live in the Midwest and are interested in a sweet, gentle girl like me, the first step is to apply to become an approved SIRA adopter. Visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt to download the application and start the process. Applying helps SIRA learn about you and your home environment so they can tell if we’ll be a good match. Once approved, they’ll introduce you to my foster mom and dad so we can meet! My adoption fee is $350.00.

AIKO

My name is Aiko and I'm looking for my forever home. I'm 9 years old and a petite girl - I weigh about 18 pounds. I spent my whole life making puppies at a commercial breeding facility. When they didn't want me anymore, SIRA rescued me and brought me to my foster home here in Monroe, Wisconsin. At first, I was so scared by just about everything. But gradually I started to realize that things here are pretty nice. My foster parents are so kind and gentle. Foster mom calls me her "Little Teddy Graham" which is sooo embarrassing, but you see what I mean. And as I started to relax, I let my true self come out. I may be (ahem) a mature lady, but I'm a silly girl at heart. I like to play peek-a-boo with my foster family around corners and run in the yard with the resident dogs here in my foster home. They have things called toys here! We never had them where I was before and at first I didn't know what they were for. But I've figured out how to play fetch with them all by myself. I also like keeping an eye on things here - I mean someone has to, right? I'll come to the top of the stairs to see who is coming in the front door so they don't let any riff-raff in. Foster mom says I also have a sassy side. I have NO idea what she means, but apparently I'm a picky eater? Hrmph. I mean do you blame me? Once you show me all of the delicious foods that exist, yes, I'll go on hunger strike if given the same wet food every day. A lady needs variety! Another new thing for me is going for a spa day. I had no idea what was happening the first time, but OMG the pampering and the nice smelling things they rub on me! It feels so good! And we get to ride in the car! I like rides, even if I'm sometimes nervous about going someplace new. I also like to go for walks, but I'm not always so fond of getting my harness and leash put on. I'm a healthy girl - spayed, house-trained, and up-to-date on my vaccinations. I do have seasonal allergies, but I take a daily allergy pill during the summer and fall and that keeps the itchies under control. My perfect forever home will be a quiet one, since I'm still getting used to this new life. A nice resident dog to be my friend and a securely fenced yard to play in are also on my "must have" list. If you have cats or other pets, that's fine with me, but no little human kids please. They terrify me! My forever family should be experienced with shy/fearful dogs like me and able to be patient with me as I continue to adapt to this new life. They should be careful to prevent escapes, since scared Shibas like me sometimes try to bolt. If you live in the midwest and think you'd like a fluffy little Teddy Graham of your very own (I can't believe I just said that), visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt to learn more and download SIRA's application forms. Applying to become an approved adopter helps SIRA learn more about you and your home environment so they can make sure we'd be a good match. Once approved, SIRA can introduce you to my foster family so we can meet! My adoption fee is $250.00.

CHESTER

My name is Chester, and I’m looking for my forever home. SIRA rescued me after a commercial breeder decided they didn’t want me after nobody bought me for Christmas. But I don’t mind, because SIRA brought me to my foster home in Bondurant, IA, where I live now. I like it here so much! I was scared at first, but once I figured out how nice everyone is here, now I’m just a big pile of puppy love! I turned 4 months old in January, and I’m neutered, current on vaccinations, and healthy. Foster mom says that I am gonna be a big boy for a Shiba, since I currently weigh 22 pounds. There are other dogs here in my foster home and I get along well with them. I especially love wrestling and chasing (or being chased). There are cats here in my foster home and I’m a good boy and don’t bother them. I haven’t met any little kids yet. But I love my foster mom and dad and greet them with airplane ears and butt wiggles every time they come home after being out. I love following them around when they’re home to see what they’re doing – because maybe there might be snacks or belly rubs or some other way that I can be the center of attention! I pretty much love all kinds of food and toys – especially chew toys when I’m hanging out in my kennel. I’m crate trained and can make it through the night in my crate with no accidents. But like most puppies my age, I still need some work on potty training when I’m given free run of my foster home. I’m learning all kinds of new things here in my foster home, like going for walks on a leash and riding in the car. Being attached to a leash still feels weird and new. I get nervous sometimes when we’re out walking and I hear a strange noise and try to dive under a parked car to hide. But foster mom is helping me learn to feel safe. Car rides also make me nervous, so foster mom makes sure not to feed me before we go so I don’t get car sick. My perfect forever home will have a securely fenced yard and ideally another dog for me to play with. My forever family should be patient with me as I’m still pretty shy with new people. But if you give me time and gentle love, I promise I’ll be your best boy forever! If you live in the Midwest and are interested in me, visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt for more information and to download SIRA’s application forms. Applying helps SIRA get to know you and your home environment so they can make sure we’ll be a good match. Once you’re approved, SIRA can introduce you to my foster mom, so we can meet! I can’t wait! My adoption fee is $500.

YUKI

My name is Yuki and I’m looking for my forever home! I am a six-month-old girl who came to SIRA from a commercial breeding facility where I was born. I don’t mind that the breeder didn’t want me anymore because I love living in a home with people! I might be cautious at first, but once I get to know you I’m a sweet little love bug! My foster mom gives me tummy rubs and butt scratches – I didn’t know anything could feel so good! Even though I’m a typical Shiba who likes to have her space, I also really love a good snuggle. And there are such yummy treats here too! My number one favorite is string cheese. Foster mom says that being food motivated is a good thing since it helps with training. There are other dogs here in my foster home and I love to play with them. We run around in the back yard and have lots of fun and sometimes I even try to fly, taking a big leap off the back of the sofa. When we’re not playing I like to keep a close eye on activity in the neighborhood and let everyone know when there is activity going on. Foster mom says that I’d make a great guard dog. I’m well-behaved overnight in my kennel and when I’m crated for periods of time during the day. There are cats here in my foster home and I’m very curious about them, but haven’t gotten close enough yet to figure out if I want to play with them or chase them. In addition to my foster mom and dad, I’ve met some older kids (age 10+) and I like them just fine – they’re fun to play with. I haven’t met any really little ones yet, though. Foster mom says that I’m very clever and like many Shibas I’m a master escape artist. I can climb over baby gates like nobody’s business and am really skilled at slipping through doors – even small openings – especially when I want to follow my human family. So my forever family will need to be very careful when coming and going in the house. I will also need a very securely fenced yard with a tall fence where my family can supervise me at all times when I’m outside. I’d do best with another nice dog to play with in my forever home. I’m still learning some things about this new life, like how to go for walks on a leash and how to be fully potty-trained. I’m a healthy girl – spayed and up-to-date on my vaccinations. I weigh about 22 lbs and am being fostered in Blue Springs, MO. If you live in the midwest and are interested in a sweet, spunky little girl like me, visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt to start the process of becoming approved to adopt from SIRA. Your application helps SIRA get to know you and your home environment so they can confirm that we'll be a good match. Once approved, SIRA will introduce you to my foster family so we can meet. My adoption fee is $500.

SETSU

My name is Setsu and I’m looking for my forever home! I am 6 months old, I weigh 20 lbs, and I’m a playful and friendly boy. I can be cautious and skittish in unfamiliar places or with new people, but once I get comfortable, I’ll warm up quickly, especially if there are treats involved. String cheese is my favorite and can make me forget all about being shy! Once I get to know a person, I love getting butt scratches and tummy rubs and attention! Foster mom says that I have the BEST tail wag and airplane ears when I’m happy to see her. I came to SIRA from a commercial breeding facility where I was born. For the past month, I’ve been living in my foster home in Blue Springs, MO, and getting used to living in a house with people. I like it here very much! There are other dogs to play with we love to run around in the yard together. My foster family keeps a very careful eye on my when I’m outside and when they get ready to leave the house because I’m a typical Shiba escape artist. I’m really good at darting through open doors and climbing over baby gates. I like the kids here in my foster home. They’re bigger kids – I haven’t met any really little ones yet. There are cats here, but I haven’t gotten close enough to them to figure out if I want to be friends or if I want to chase them. I’m a good boy, I promise, but I am so curious to explore – especially if my foster family is going out, then I want to go out too! When we’re inside, I’m a typical puppy and find fun and mischievous things to do to keep me and foster mom entertained. I sometimes steal things off my foster mom’s desk or another high place that she thinks I can’t reach! I don’t bark very much, mostly if I’m really happy or excited about something that I just can’t contain myself. I’m learning basic commands and how to walk on a leash and being house trained. Foster mom says that I’m doing well being crate-trained overnight and when unsupervised for short periods during the day. But if I’m in my crate and my foster family is there where I can see them, then I WANT OUT! My perfect forever home will have another friendly, playful dog that I can bond with and a securely fenced yard that we can run and play with. My forever family should be committed to continuing my training so I can grow up to be a happy and well-adjusted adult. They’ll want to help me get used to things that I hate – like having my paws handled and being dried off if I get wet outside. I also don’t like being handled to put on my harness, but once it’s on, I’m fine wearing it. I am healthy, neutered, and up-to-date on my vaccinations. If you live in the Midwest and want a happy, playful, friendly and sweet boy like me to join 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 forms. The application process helps SIRA make sure that we’ll be a good match. Once approved, SIRA will introduce you to my foster mom so we can meet! I can’t wait!! My adoption fee is $500.