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I think it's an admirable attitude Radar. And in truth, I also care more about people than animals. I think where I take issue with what you said is the bit about if the cost of vets is more than the amount paid for the animal in the first place, that's it, time to say goodbye.
I have a problem with that because that's the attitude I have towards electrical goods: if the cost of repair is more than the cost of replacement, why bother?
Also: when you buy a puppy, that's exactly what you're buying: a puppy (or a kitten). A creature that is yet to grow into what it eventually will be. Later on, you have a dog (or cat) who has moulded itself to your home and life, under your influence. Why would a creature who has spent 10 years (for example) moulding itself to you and learning to be your companion be worth the same money to you as an unknown quantity?
I don't spend a lot on Pilau. I buy him new toys every so often, maybe three or four dogtoys a year. I buy him a new collar or lead when he needs one. He gets food every day and that includes a small portion of gravy bone biscuits. None of these are expensive items. But I will spend whatever I need to at the vets, because I am responsible for his health and happiness. I became responsible for his health and happiness the day I removed him from his mother at the age of 8 weeks.
These are creatures who've been specifically bred as companions. They are, by nature, social animals who remain in family groups. They are denied canine family groups and instead expected to confom to human families. Which they do. As indeed they have done for thousands of years.
he does his duty as a dog: he guards my house from unwanted guests (unfortunately this includes the postman but that's probably my fault for not training him properly:P) he guards me and protects me when we are walking (again, he protects me a little too enthusiastically, but as far as he's concerned this is his job). He doesn't go off-duty until I am in bed. He does his bit; I do mine.
Besides...*smiles* I made his mother a promise to look after her baby.
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