Yeah speak to your local rescue they probably will have small crossbreeds available maybe similar to the bichon frise but doubt you will get pure bred for free, even the shelters charge an adoption fee...

Sorry to sound like a nag, but the cost of buying the dog is usually nothing in relation to the upkeep of it in the long run, is your ma sure she will be able to afford things in the long term... flea treatment, regular visits to groomers, good quality food, beds, toys, crate, collars/leads, worming tablets, innoculations... and so on... if she can't afford the initial price how will she cope with all that?

I only say this as it has worked out a LOT more expensive keeping our pup than we ever expected. Good luck with your search

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