He has been overlooked time and time again - but desperately needs a retirement home to settle down as he enters his twilight years.
Ten-year-old Kuzey was taken into the RSPCA’s care in October and has been waiting six months for a new family to walk in to his life and take him home.
When he was rescued, he was very thin and had sores on his legs that hadn’t been treated - but he’s now feeling much better and is a lovely, gentle old boy.
Maisie Walker, from Blackberry Farm Animal Centre, in Buckinghamshire, where he is being looked after, said: “Kuzey is such a sweet old gent but, at 10, his age is starting to catch up with him and he’s on long-term pain medication for arthritis which will need to continue in his new home.
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“We fear that adopters are being put off by this extra responsibility as it will come at an extra cost at a time when families are really feeling the pinch.
“We are desperate to find Kuzey his forever home as he's been in our care for so long and, at his age, he really needs a cosy, warm retirement home where he’ll be showered with love. We do the best we can but nothing can replace a wonderful home of his own.”
Despite his age and his stiff joints, the akita is very playful and loves to play with his toys.
He enjoys gentle walks and loves nothing more than a good sniff. He could live with children over 12-years-old but would prefer to be the only dog and isn’t a fan of cats.
He can be unsure around other dogs so his new owners will need to bear this in mind when socialising with other pooches. He’s happy to walk with other dogs but doesn’t like it when they get into his personal space.
Maisie added: “Unfortunately Kuzey is one in a long line of dogs coming into our care with separation anxiety having got used to having people around during lockdown.
"He’d really like new owners who can dedicate lots of time to helping him settle in before gradually introducing him to spending time alone.
“He is such a loving, affectionate lad with so much love to give. Please can someone give him a chance?”
The RSPCA is urging people to adopt an animal in need rather than turning to breeders when wanting to welcome a pet into their family.
"While it may be easy to find animals on the internet or even spend hundreds on an expensive breeder, you could risk heartache or huge vet's bills if you don't do your homework," a statement reads.
"By adopting and not shopping you'll also feel good for doing good - by giving an animal a second chance at life in a loving home!
"Plus, adopting from us means that you can relax knowing that all our animals are healthy, neutered, vaccinated and microchipped.
"As with all the animals we rehome, we'll pass on the details of their behaviour and veterinary treatment. You'll likely know more about your rescue animal's history than if you were to buy an animal online!
"We've taken the time to get to know each animal as an individual, to understand their likes and dislikes and to prepare them for life in a loving family, which means there are less likely to be nasty surprises when you get home!
"When you adopt a cat or a dog from one of our centres, you'll also get four weeks free pet insurance, which is vital to protect your pet's future as well as your bank balance! There's so much to gain from rescuing an animal in need."
To find out more about Kuzey visit his online profile or contact blackberryfarm@rspca.org.uk or 0300 123 0752.
Do you have a dog story to share? Email paige.freshwater@reachplc.com.
