hahahaa love ur post Lulu!

Well done on going to the animal league.

Dogs/Puppies from rescue organisations are usually priced according to the care they need when rescued. Some have significant vet bills as they are nursed back to health, then yes, there's desexing, microchipping, vaccinations, worming & feeding.

My bitzer from a rescue organisation was $180 and my pedigree labrador was $1000.

I wouldn't buy from a pet store unless it's something like "pets at home" who stock dogs/cats/puppies/kittens from the Lort Smith Animal Home. There are so many abandoned animals out there - if you want a specific breed, then look for that breed "rescue" group. You can get an older animal (usually toilet trained etc) for the fraction of a cost, and know that you're saving an animal from death.