Often our own pets develop medical conditions, especially as they get older. Some people spend a lot of money to keep the pet healthy and happy and others are not able to at that time. I think that's similar. My last cat was sick for a year and I had to give him daily pills, etc.

I might take a special needs pet, but it would depend on the needs. My husband is not so keen on affording paying for a pet's medical bills, especially since there's no insurance or anything.

I can't see keeping an animal alive that no one is already connected and committed to as a pet; that would be a little like going out and trying to rescue wildlife. Animals/pets are good companions, teachers, etc. but not human and I don't know that anthropomorphisizing them and keeping them alive for our purposes does them any good.