Tribute to special dogs we have lost
"Sometimes God takes them back"
"Seiko"
Royal's Timeless Essence
Seiko was my first Akita. She came to live with my family when I was in college. After I married Brian, Seiko moved with us to our new home but she was not happy there so she went back to live with my parents, Paul and Jeri Newman. Seiko taught me so much about Akitas and it is because of her that I am so in love with this breed. Seiko defined what an Akita should be - she was calm and dignified and had an air of royalty about her.
Seiko unfortunately had her share of health problems in her life. She did not let it destroy her wonderful spirit however and our family enjoyed almost 11 years with her. I will miss Seiko she will always hold a very special place in my heart.
"Oliver"
Oliver was the beloved companion of Brian's parents, Ken and Janice Lane. He was adopted from Greyhound rescue, who found him roaming the streets. Thus his exact age and history as a racing dog are unknown. Oliver had a lot to learn about the living in a home! He adapted quickly to a slower style of living and it suited him well. Oliver had his own "bed" (a loveseat) and a whole collection of toys. He lived a great life with the Lanes. He is sadly missed but will be very fondly remembered as a wonderful family member.
"Zabu"
Valiant's Zoboomafoo
Zabu's picture Gallery
On March 7, 2003, we lost our beloved 9 month old puppy Zabu to bloat.
I cannot say enough good things about this young dog. He was in my eyes as close to my version of the standard as I have personally seen. Zabu had everything I ever wanted in an Akita - heavy bone, typey head with excellent stop and good earset, thick coat with lots of "flash", awesome cat feet, thick, long tail and powerful, clean movement. His best feature though had to be his temperament he LOVED people and was an extroverted goof just like his mom Dazey. He was excellent with my other dogs and with my daughter Courtney too.
During Zabu's short show career he was undefeated against his breed, winning 4 AKC matches including a Best in Match at 9 weeks old. He is pictured above winning one of his back to back Best of Breed wins over a group placing/AOM male special from the puppy class at his only AKC show weekend. We lost Zabu shortly after this show. It saddens me that so few of my friends got to see this puppy because I was so very proud of him. Losing Zabu so suddenly came as such a shock and devastating blow to me. It was very hard to pick up the pieces and want to show and breed again. I still miss him very much and do not know if I will ever have another quite like him but the upcoming youngsters that are here make it easier to bear his loss.
God Speed Zabu, We miss you.
We lost Zabu's brother AC on Friday, July 12, 2002 at 6 weeks old due to damages in his intestines from a condition called intussusception (telescoping intestines). The condition came on very rapidly Thursday evening and by Friday morning he was gone.
It was a shock to us and we will deeply miss this puppy who had such an amazing, fun-loving personality. He was a miniature version of his grandfather "Blade".
Good bye sweet AC.
"Harley"
Valiant's Official Mutt
Harley was our first dog and belonged to Brian before we got married. He was crazy, wild and always a lot of fun. He loved to swim and chase balls. We miss you buddy.