Getting a dog

Question
Hi,
My family and I are having a really difficult time finding a new dog.  Our beloved German Shepard mix has passed on and our home is now incredibly lonesome without him.  Unfortunately, I am pregnant and our children are ages 5 and 11.   We have interviewed with several rescue agencies and each have said we would not be approved for adoption due to the age of our youngest child and my pregnancy.  This is so frustrating because we would provide an incredible, trustworthy, life for our dog.  It is getting more tempting to just buy a dog and this goes strongly against our morals.  Any advice?

Answer
It is a real shame you are having trouble when we are slaughtering millions of dogs for lack of homes each year.   I am very supportive of the rescue agencies.  I think they do a fine job of preparing dogs for a new home and placing them in the right one.  Since you don't qualify with them, try some other things.  Check the paper and perhaps Craig's List for free to good home or low cost dogs.  You local shelter may be more friendly than other places.  The lobby of my vets office is filled with free to a good home notices.  Check the vet you are using, and perhaps others.  I am not sure what standards www.petfinders.org has.  

It is great people like you want to save a dog's life.  Feel free to come back with any questions once you find a dog.