Ask anyone who has adopted a pet from The Humane Society.  We love our pets from the Galveston IHS (and all they cost were a few immunizations at a discount:)  Most of the dogs I met in the Pet Parade were rescues.  Why would you pay hundreds, even thousands, when there are so many in need of homes?  They come in every breed, shape and size imaginable and the love they give is worth every penny!  They add such spice to our lives and ask so little in return ~ a bowl of food and a little water goes a long way.  AND they give you an excuse to dress up like a maniac and parade down The Strand on Mardi Gras!