For what it's worth, if I was looking to adopt a dog, I would not have been put off contacting BRAT by the OP's posts, but some of the responses could certainly make me think twice about getting involved with the organization!
LOL. Well first of all, a very fair post.
For the end, really, go look at threads where someone attacks a breeder without contacting them. I defend them with the same passion I show to rescue. My sense of fair play get riled. But please do remember I represent BRAT no more than I represent the breeders. It is my personal opinion.
As a rescue, and I have worked with many, they do a great job. It helps to be in a breed where almost any Basenji who is not a risk (ie temperament) can probably be saved by BRAT. When you work in Chow or Rottie rescue, where we have to turn down – no exaggeration -- 20 to 40 for every one we can take, working with BRAT is less traumatic. I can go to a shelter or home and know that if the dog is okay, it won't be put down. I used to walk in shelters to do evaluations on Rotties and Chows and come home crying because even if half of the dogs were stable and wonderful pets, I knew the shelter and local rescues MIGHT save 1 or 2 out of 6 to 10.
BRAT stands behind those dogs, as any rescue should. They take them back if there is ever a problem. They pay fosters for medical expenses, which a lot of rescues cannot. They provide support for owners and foster homes. There is NOTHING wrong with BRAT. Of course you get many individuals and some will not be your cup of tea, sometimes someone makes a bad call. But do not judge BRAT by your dislike for me or how I post.
Well actually, you might think about this. IF I were a BRAT rep, in any way official, I'd be muzzled or kicked out for expressing my VIEWS in a public forum even if I didn't give away any private info. So again, don't judge BRAT by me. And do remember that I am just as protective of anyone who gets blasted and accused who didn't get contacted first and given the opportunity to fix it.