[marianne]

This has been a very interesting thread. My 2 cents on this are from my own experence. One of my litters had a new puppy owner vacationing. The family paid for the pup in full,asking if I could hold the pup for one month. I felt it was worth the wait for this family. I had the pup housebroke,starting collar and lead work,all shots up to date. I always have extra crates around here,so did not have to purchase one for the pup (Darcy).
When the family came for Darcy...the new Mamma just cried holding her pup!They gave me an envelope they had brought with them. Believe me I was shocked with the amount in the envelope! More than I would have asked for to hold the pup. Darcy will be 10yrs old in Nov. The husband has passed away. The mamma still walks her baby every day and is her best companion.
I still get a very good feeling about keeping the pup for that extra month!!!!