people wanting freebies

[Mainestreet]

As a veteran newspaper reporter, I've done my share of lost/injured/abused animal stories, and most of the people I've met have truly loved their animals. Some had to give them up for unforeseen reasons, which is why our shelters are so crowded. Even when I adopted Lynx, I was on a mission to find my MC, but when I saw her staring at me out of that photo, I couldn't resist her and knew I could give her a good home. If it put my MC kitten on hold for awhile, it is only temporary.
As I research breeders in my area, I still check my local ads and I can't believe the number of people who are looking for a 'free Maine Coon.'
Reading the posts here, I see that all of you were willing to spend a considerable amount of money to buy a purebred animal from a reputable breeder, which I heartily applaud.
I guess this is just a rant, but it really irritates me that there are people (like me) willing to sacrifice and save to buy an expensive cat while others brazenly ask for one for nothing. Before I got Lynx, I found an ad for a 'free' MC, and emailed out of curiosity. I asked why the man was giving away such an expensive animal. At least if you ask a price, you are getting a serious inquiry. He never replied.
I admit, though, in my area, MCs are more expensive than other breeds.
I guess I'll always wonder why some people think a purebred animal with so much work and dedication behind it should be 'free'.