Gotta say, my experience with slightly older pups has been the same as yours . It's difficult when you don't live in a "normal" environment and you really do need to be exceptionally careful with what you bring into the household.
I think I will call about this pup and ask as many questions as I can think of. Not a done-deal, but what if she would be perfect for us? It means we have jumped the gun and don't have to wait so long to have a good working dog.
Many many thanks - you have all been a big help in trying to help my turmoiled mind.