Akita owners interested in feeding the canine raw diet (sometimes called BARF "Bones And Raw Food") and in alternative approaches to the care of their dog[s], are welcome to join the Natural-Akita list.

Natural-Akita is a medium-sized list that offers new listmembers encouragement and support as they consider this "new" approach to canine nutrition and health. Because the list is not overly large, it almost seems like an extended family. In fact, there is a remarkable air of harmony in the discussions generated on Natural-Akita.

Natural-Akita list is hosted by Yahoo; you will need to go there to establish your personal profile. Prior to subscribing to the list, you will be asked to send me an email with a brief introduction of yourself and your Akitas, and outlining why you would like to join the list. Once I receive your email, I'll subscribe you to Natural-Akita.

Once you are signed up, you will immediately be able to join in. Please post an introduction to let us know you're on board, and the fun will begin! Of course, you're welcome to lurk and read for awhile, but we all love the questions new listmembers ask and are excited to know when another Akita owner has switched their dogs to raw food.

Speaking of questions, many of the most common questions new members have are addressed in the nutrition FAQ; please take the time to read it before you post to the list. There are numerous informative articles on Natural Akita website, especially in the Natural Canine pages, enjoy.

You'll find our Natural Akita quite different from the others. We keep the focus on all things natural while avoiding the everyday discussions and announcements common to the other lists. Please keep your posts on topic and appropriate for NA.