Wow, well, I don't agree with keeping dogs in the backyard, but, that's just my personal opinion. A crate is a great idea for safety and comfort reasons, and, there are ways to acclimate a hyper, scared of cages, dog to a crate, but, I know it takes a lot of time. I know that they had every right to refuse you as far as adopting Lady, but, they could have been nicer to you. Again, I disagree with leaving a dog in the backyard, but, I don't think it was appropriate or professional for the employees/volunteers to go off on you the way they did. They should have just politely refused the adoption, and dealt with the situation more pleasantly. That sucks that you had to go through that. I hope Lady gets a good home, though, and, that you are able to rescue a dog from somewhere that isn't as rigid as far as the backyard rule.