Just doing even a little research gives one (well, me, at least!) a feeling of control and of wide-open possibilities

Exactly! Even thinking about doing research is helping me to feel a little less cornered and claustrophobic. I'll share things as I make my discoveries, good or bad, and also look forward to getting input from you guys!

I like the idea of me running a kennel too! Of the three possibilities I listed, it's the most labor-intensive and difficult, but! But!