Some people charge for rehoming because they are looking for serious pet owners who are willing and able to spend money on the dog. Putting a price on the animal can weed out alot of people who are simply looking for s 'freebie' but aren't perhaps aware of the full responsibilities of being a pet owner. It can be an expensive experience owning a pet, and people who are more likely to cough up for ownership are more likely to cough up for vet bills, quality food, etc. We paid $350 for our beagle, she was a year old and being rehomed by someone who just didn't have time to care for her properly anymore. The previous owners really didn't want to give her up, but realised that she needed a home where she would have company and attention. (She is also a pure bred and wasn't de-sexed, so could have had value as a 'breeder').

And then of course, there are always those people who don't really care, but are just looking to make a quick buck.