Considering an Aussie

Question
Anne, I lost my border collie last year after 18 years, and I am starting to get the urge to get another dog, and I like Aussies.  I would like to adopt a young one if I could, but I don't dare go to an adoption agency or I will see a poor puppy that is not what I want and take him because I am a sucker for that kind of stuff.  got any ideas how I caould find a good dog through an agency without actually going there?  Is there some way to post such that adoptions groups around the country could see it?

Also, have you ever seen an Aussie /Lab cross?  Seems to me that would be a pretty good looking dog, and pretty smart.

Thanks,
Randy  PS I live in Las Cruces New Mexico

Answer
Hi Randy,
I'm always glad when people who are familiar with the herding breeds decide to get another one.  I'm also glad that you don't want to support puppy mills, or take a dog that might not be right for you or your family.  One thing you can do is contact the Australian Shepherd Rescue and Placement Helpline.  They rescue Aussies from all over the country.
You could opt to get a puppy, but when buying Aussies, buyer beware - the gene pool is small and epilepsy and hip dysplasia, as well as eye problems are common in the breed.  If you are interested in pups, try calling Shelley Hollen in Texas - Shalako Aussies.  If she doesn't have a litter, she can probably refer you to a reputable breeder that does, or perhaps someone who has retired a dog from showing and is looking for a home for it.  Aussies, like Border Collies, need extensive early socialization, so you do want to be careful not to fall for the too-shy pup.  
If you are near Alamogordo, you might want to check this dog out:
http://www.aussierescuesw.org/non-arph_dogs.htm#New%20Mexico%20non%20ARPH
He isn't an ARPH dog, just a courtesy listing, but he is cute.

Good luck!