I agree, I don't know how anyone can put a dog down just because it does not sell or is no longer "needed". There is a breeder near me who does that, but instead of taking the dog to the Vet, she shoots them. I think she is getting out of breeding. I have one of her older dogs that is living her life out here along with a couple of my older dogs. It tends to get costly, but it's like you said, "when you breed you are responsible for what you bring into this world" you are also responsible for what you purchase.