Akita-Inu Sake, age 13 (91 in people years), died October 29, 2005, after a full life and a brief illness. Sake was a life-long resident of Newport News, Va. She was the beloved companion of Michael, Dana, Matthew, and Drew. Sake served as the family's head of household security until her retirement at age 11 (77), although she maintained an active interest in security issues well into her later life. All visitors to the home were subjected to a thorough sniffing, and when appropriate were barked at vehemently. As a puppy Sake studied obedience under Rick Tevalia. Her academic record did not fully reflect her aptitude. She was always able to perform well in response to positive reinforcement in the form of cookies, or the promise of a cookie. Without a cookie, not so much. Sake had a deep and abiding love for almost all humans. She was a committed family dog. She welcomed infants Matthew and Drew with affection and concern and was extremely tolerant of their attentions even during the awkward toddler years. Unfortunately Sake did not have similar warm feelings for other dogs. She was intensely proud and dominating in the presence of other canines. It was said that Sake "never met a dog she didn't like -- on it's back." Oh how the fur would fly. Although bred for rugged outdoor work Sake herself developed a certain fondness for air conditioning and carpet. When the temperature dipped below 40 she would sometimes spend a happy hour outdoors. The rest of the time she did her business and headed straight back in. Sake will be most fondly remembered for her warmth and fuzziness. She was a beautiful, sweet, affectionate, nice animal. She was playful and intelligent. She never missed a meal or an opportunity to get in on somebody else's meal. She will be missed forever.