When you "rescue" a dog through an agency, you're spending $$ on them as well. Yeah, it's for different reasons, but so? The point is that since you're going to be spending money to rescue or not, why not get just what you're looking for? Who cares how much the fee is as long as you're willing to pay that amount.
I'm so anxious for you and this isn't even my new puppy to be! lol
Let us know when you get word! And I agree, many things in life do happen for a reason! I'm still not sure why my bc failed when it's worked for the last 8 years, but maybe when my baby is born I'll find out the "why". Maybe I never will, but I'm hopin'!