Our german shepherd is nearing his last days, so at this point, a new dog is not really on our radar. 
However, if/when we are ready for another dog, he/she will definately come from our local animal shelter. Who knows, maybe I will find a nice GS mixed breed? But if not, that is ok too. What IS certain for me, is the fact that our shelter choice will NOT be a puppy. I have volunteered at our local animal shelter from time to time, and found that adult dogs and cats are much harder to place. Most people seem to want just puppies or kittens, sadly.
As you so rightly point out, there is a great need for more loving homes. The very idea of any healthy animal being put down for lack of a home, is a national disgrace- imho.
In the meantime, as a tribute to my dog Jimmy, I will be donating a modest sum of money, as well as his toys, food, treats and dog-beds. I have 3 very nice large-dog size beds that are machine washable... (they unzip-which keeps them from being too hard on the shelter washing machine).
Now, more then ever, we really need to be thinking of our furry friends in shelters. Times are hard everywhere and unfortunately shelter and animal control funds tend to be the first thing stripped from municipal budgets. Some municipalities provide very little or no monetary assistance at all anyway- hard economic times just make everything even worse.
Thanks for this very important reminder WA!
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