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<DIV>I think it is very difficult for some people to "wait" for the right
dog. And to get a good dog from a reputable breeder, there is normally a
wait or screening of some kind involved.</DIV>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV>Yes, there is, but it isn't as bad as you think. If you have had a
basset in the past, you will be at the top of any list. No one is going to
come looking in your drawers to decide if you are a good pet owner.</DIV>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV>And yes, the best dogs to get from a reputable breeder are often 2 - 3 year
old dogs that for some reason are not doing well in the showring, but are
completely housebroken and trained. Also, occasionally breeders will look
for a home for a finished champion and they are also wonderful dogs to
get. So don't always ask about a puppy.</DIV>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV>As for cost, the difference in cost will add up on the end of the dog's
life. Responsible breeders are always testing and screening and studying
pedigrees to have the healthiest dogs possible. This means they have more costs
involved. But skipping some medical problems that can occur with poorly
bred dogs as they age is one benefit that should be factored in. Doesn't
mean that all dogs don't often have something occur in old age, but responsible
breeders are doing everything they can to prevent known problems from
reoccurring.</DIV>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV>The connection to a responsible breeder can also not be overlooked.
These people open their dogs to you, and they open their lives as well.
They will do anything to help in a time of need and will always be there for you
and your dogs.</DIV>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV>Rescue is also an honor and a privilege. I am one of the first to
say, if you can't support a rescue in someway, then don't breed. Best
scenario is to have both. Afterall, bassets are like potato chips.~</DIV>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV>Sara*</DIV>
<DIV>Bluefence Bassets</DIV></FONT><BR><BR><BR><DIV><FONT style="color: black; font: normal 10pt ARIAL, SAN-SERIF;"><HR style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px">Vote for your city's best dining and nightlife. <A title="http://citysbest.aol.com?ncid=aolacg00050000000102" href="http://citysbest.aol.com?ncid=aolacg00050000000102" target="_blank">City's Best 2008</A>.</FONT></DIV></BODY></HTML>