[jrsygal37]

Originally Posted by mistyblue

I truly do not want to cause a stir but...I can't help but wonder about the cost of "adoption" fees these days. I totally understand that the dogs who come into rescue need to be vetted. But can they truly be racking up bills into the hundreds and thousands? I think it is a sad fact that most people in today's economy can't afford to initally lay out hundreds of dollars to adopt a pet even though they are quite capable of covering regular vet and upkeep expenses. I have to wonder if the high cost of adoption fees is what keeps alot of people from adopting. For instance, if one were willing/able to lay out $500+ initially for a rescued and/or mix breed (aka "designer" dogs...that's another subject entirely!!) wouldn't that person be more likely to buy from a questionable breeder for the same or lower cost? Thereby perpetuating the problem? Just wondering...

You can't compare the adoption fee of $500 to buying a pup. The reason is because your adoption fee covers the spay or neuter, shots, heart worm preventative and any medical that dog needed prior to be placed for adoption. When you add all this up you are basically getting this dog free. The cost in NJ for a spay or neuter is $350. A routine vistit just to walk in the door of a vet is $56. Shots you can figure at least another $75 and heartworm preventative at least $50. This is not to mention if the pup had a condition needed to be treated. When you buy a pup from a breeder all you are getting for your money is the pup. You have to tack on all the additional $$ for vet care and having the dog spay or neutered.

With that said you made a good point about our economy. Rescue works on donations. Who do you think pays for their vet care for the animals they are adopting? Vets are not cheap and they do not work free. The money has to come from somewhere in order to keep the rescue operationable.

My personal feelings is that you are getting quite a deal adopting. If money is an issue the local Humane Societies also include the spay or neuter as well as shots etc. and they charge generally only $150. You do find pure breds in there as well but there are plenty of mixed breeds that need homes and make just a good a pet. I hate the word designer dog because really all it is is a mutt or as I prefer to call it mixed up pup.

Elaine