"I am posting this request as National Co-ordinator of the Friends of Akitas Trust (UK) - registered charity number 1128641 - to enquire about corporate sponsorship. Akitas are a large spitz breed of dog, originating from the mountainous northern regions of Japan.

"The Trust is a not for profit charity that specialises in rescuing and re-homing Akitas in need. The organisation was formed in late 2007 when it became apparent there was a gap in provision for Akitas ending up on 'death row' in council pounds across the UK.

"One of our aims is to raise awareness of the breed and roll out an educational programme nationwide. We currently adhere to this by taking part in organised events throughout the UK and also by holding our own. Every year we attend Crufts and Discover Dogs, etc. as well as hosting smaller scale walks and fun days locally.

"FOA started off with one dog, a young Akita bitch named Molly, who was on death row in a South Yorkshire pound, who was subsequently re-homed in December 2007. Four years later we have been involved with over 500 Akitas. As an organisation in high demand, we are facing many costs related to kennelling, vet bills and transport, not to mention the day-to-day costs of running the organisation; our monthly outgoings are in excess of £1,500.

"At this time of year the charity comes under immense pressure and these costs rise even further. Last week alone we were contacted about six dogs facing euthanasia in a South Yorkshire pound.

"The Trust would welcome the opportunity to work with a sponsor to strengthen both brands. We are currently one of the largest Akita breed rescues in the UK with over 4,000 forum members.

"We have a high number of followers on social networking sites and feel we have a lot to offer any potential sponsor in terms of exposure and low cost marketing".

Contact: Les Rolins, National Co-ordinator

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