Maybe he was even dropped off and picked up at your house. Very little expense to the rescuer. But next you get an older dog, needing a spay, heartworm treatment, and other medical work. She must be picked up in a distant city and because she needs confidence building and since older dogs aren't in great demand, she stays a year before being placed. No rescue will refuse an extra donation if you can afford it.
Many rescuers participate in dog shows and are committed to improving the breed overall.
It is a way of giving something back to the breeds which have provided so much joy over the years. Still others enjoy working with lots of different dogs, many of whom have special training needs. And there is a unique sense of fulfillment in seeing a frightened, unhappy, and sometimes sick animal come into the program, gradually improve, and finally leave to become a healthy, happy, and beloved member of a very special family. All rescuers get a lot of satisfaction from helping good dogs and good people find happiness together. Just check out our links page for a list of rescue organizations all over the world.