I ended up with a rescue pup last Spring. I had lost my last Cavalier last summer and was finally ready for a new pup. Good healthy Cavaliers are neither common nor cheap! Part of me wanted a different breed to avoid comparisons while part still longed for another Cavalier.
I searched for Cavalier breeders while also checking out rescue sites. I found a breeder a couple of states away and after we checked each other out it looked like she would have a suitable puppy soon. Meanwhile I saw a picture of a little Chihuahua mix puppy being brought in from down South. I applied and was accepted. I thought about getting both puppies, but the logistics of getting the Cavalier were proving to be difficult. Reluctantly, I decided to just get the rescue. He came neutered, microchipped and ready for trouble!