I second pet insurance! I wish I'd taken it out when we got Odin - he had an entropian eyelid (another thing to watch out for with the gorgeous droopy eyes), now arthritis, almost hip displaysia and is prone to demodectic mange when his immunity is low...
I reckon your pup will be a good candidate for blood donation, too, in good time
I'm glad I created a sook of a dog with the carrying - he is scary as all get out for new visitors (great deterrant!) and just a big softie as soon as you throw a ball or stick (he's yours forever if you throw him something).
As soon as MiL returns from her big OS trip and takes her dog back, I think I'll make noises about a rescue...thanks for the reminder