Keeping it real..this is my 0.02...
A lot more people used to sign up which tells me it is no longer fun or doable for the majority. Whether or not it matters to the people who spend more if they get a lot in return doesn't matter bc the majority are spending more. Very few spend close to the minimum. That is automatically going to make members who spend less feel weird.
We all have financial priorites. That said, I cannot imagine sending 1/3 grand on a pup from an online forum unless I reallllly knew the owner. It sounds extreme and is over my head. The same goes for $150. I don't think this was the original intent of the GE. It used to look more manageable by far.
Honestly, I've never spent $150 on my dogs at one time except necessary expenses. Not even sure what I'd buy for that that wouldn't just sit around? Mine rarely wear clothes, etc. But they aren't lacking anything. And the things that can be a bit spendy (kennels, baby gates) aren't GE material.
You all have fun.
...and the baby talk, almost expected smile box, expected hint participation...sounds like a big chore to some of us.