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<DIV>I agree with Robert's response. The exact circumstances of that particular rescue may indicate</DIV>
<DIV>differently, but the elderly and special needs tend to not get adopted quickly and tie up foster homes that could accomodate more dogs. I don't think these dogs adapt as well to life in kennels or doggie day care. The younger dogs love to play with buddies all day--the older dogs who are used to a home situation are just uncomfortable. It is also sad for an older dog who spent years with one family, is uprooted and put in a foster home, stays there for year and then goes to another family. The faster you can get the seniors and special needs into a permanent situation, the better it is for the dog. Utah Friends of Basset Hounds here in Utah</DIV>
<DIV>has a sliding scale for fees, based on age. I know they have also had some bonded pairs that</DIV>
<DIV>had to be adopted together, and sometimes do a "2 for 1" as they are difficult to place. </DIV>
<DIV>I have an insulin dependent diabetic dog and one with allergies and no tear duct function. It</DIV>
<DIV>costs a lot for their meds and their care. If a special needs dog that is going to have recurring</DIV>
<DIV>expenses can be adopted and have the new owner carry the costs, it saves the rescue money that can be spent on more dogs. </DIV>
<DIV>Marilyn Briggs <BR></DIV>
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