I'm like fifer, also short on pennies, but I'll happily chip in what I can if it helps him.
Sometimes the heart just has to rule the head - we've all been there, and I know I'll be there again! Went to N Ireland to pick up a couple of dogs once, who were transported up from S Ireland. Wouldn't do it every week, but wouldn't rule it out in the future

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As he's a poundie, please bear in mind the risks of parvo virus and other diseases. Some pounds give a 'temporary vaccine', to give the dogs a little protection whilst they're in the pound - don't know if this happens with Irish poundies.
Bless you for what you're doing.