We are Lorraine and Gary Burch, who, along with our sons, have loved and raised Akitas since 1990 under the kennel name "Akitas of Kireisa".  Located within in the triangle formed by Milton, Hamilton and Guelph, Ontario, we are one hour northwest of Toronto, and one northeast of Niagara Falls.  Our experience with dogs spans more than 35 years, encompassing many aspects, including competitive obedience, dog guide training/breeding, and animal control management. We show our dogs competitively, both in Canada and the United States, and we participate in the breed specialties of both countries. Several of our Akitas are being exhibited in Europe under the breed name "Great Japanese Dogs" (popularly referred to in Europe and elsewhere as "American Akitas").  Our ongoing commitment to the breed includes attendance at educational seminars on genetics, nutrition, structure, breeding, health and training.  We have been members in good standing of the the Canadian Kennel Club for 18 years; in 2005, Lorraine was appointed as CKC Conformation Council Representative, and currently (through 2008) continues to hold the position of Examination Committee Chair for the Central Ontario Zone.  Both Gary and Lorraine have served in various capacities (including President) on the Board of Directors and Executive of the Akita Club of Canada during a continuous 16-year membership.

Our goal is to produce healthy, happy dogs of correct structure and type, that are steadfast and loyal family companions.  Our breedings are carefully planned, with our commitment to health, soundness and good temperament being foremost in mind. As ethical, responsible breeders, our testing criteria meets or exceeds requirements set by North American breed clubs. All of our dogs are screened for breed specific disorders (hip dysplasia, eye and thyroid disorders in the Akitas), with a view to producing healthy, temperamentally and structurally sound dogs. As well, we participate whenever possible in the American Kennel Club's genetic DNA testing program, and other studies that will benefit the long-term health and longevity of the breed.

At Kireisa, we plan only one or two litters per year, ensuring that each and every puppy receives the individual attention required to become a happy, well-adjusted adult. Strong emphasis is placed on proper nutrition and exercise for the pregnant dam. Regular monitoring and veterinary consultation takes place to ensure both mother and pups are in the best of health throughout gestation, whelping, lactation and weaning periods.

All Kireisa dogs are "members of the family" and take part in our family activities, such as walking, hiking, and backpacking. As well, they participate in other "canine" activities, including conformation competition (dog shows), obedience training, carting, therapy work . Puppies are raised in our home, with children, and receive plenty of love and attention right from their first days. Socialization occurs as they are integrated into our family routine and exposed to the sights and sounds of an active household.

The well-being and happiness of our dogs is a primary concern, therefore, all puppies are sold on a contract basis, which protects both the puppy and the purchaser. The purpose of our contract is three-fold:

        ♦ to ensure the health and well-being of the dog for its entire lifespan;
        ♦ to offer the purchaser the reassurance of a sound, well-bred dog; and
        ♦ to maintain or improve the quality, traits and integrity of the breed.

We assist our pre-approved purchasers in selecting the puppy that will best fit in with the family's requirements, and we stay in touch to provide advice and guidance along the way. Private consultations and training sessions are available upon request.  We believe that our obligation to you, as a purchaser of a Kireisa puppy, is ongoing throughout the lifetime of the dog.

Lorraine and Gary Burch
Akitas of Kireisa