hope this isnt considered advertising but I am @ a loss. I have been searching the internet for a specific dog for my kids( mainly my 8 yr old son). Would like any info on where to find 1 of the following either a small aussie/sheltie mix, a small aussie/border collie mix or would possibly consider a b/c aussie mix. Would prefer a male but gender isnt that big of issue. Longer coat a plus.Like the merles & the sables but no b/w please.I would actually prefer an adult over puppy but again would consider pup. Doesnt have to be exactly the above mixes but something along those lines. Want a dog who will play ball & go run & play w his almost 9 yr old boy. Must get along with other dogs & cats. Looking for something that will stay under 25 lbs but will be @ least 12 lbs. I know I am asking alot but really do want to find the ideal pet for our family & most esp my son. My son is partially deaf & we recently lost his Cocker Spaniel mix & he is very lonely w/o his buddy.He has had alot of changes in his life the last few months( his dad & myself going through divorce) plus he will be starting back to school in about a week & we just found out his speech teacher he has had for the last 5 yrs is no longer w this school district. Really would like to find him another companion soon. We are in Illinois but could prob get the ideal pet picked up from parts of Oh,IN,Mi & Ky. Anyone who can direct us in the right direction would be appreciated. We have been approved by a rescue group(PALS) but they do not have the right dog for us yet. Thanks for any help that can be provided.