The Humane Society shelters have different rules for adopting. It is much easier to get an animal from the City Animal shelter. I don't go to the Humane Society to adopt at all. Their rules are too stringent and don't relate to reality. Here there rules are that cats are NEVER to go outside. (Cats need grasses to eat for their digestion) Dogs MUST have FENCED in yards. What if I live on a farm and it is a hunting dog? Hello - Reality!!!
The City Animal shelter is friendlier and warmer. You almost have to be stripped search to see the animals at the Humane Society. They bring the pet to you. I once saw their "cages" and they were kept much nastier than the City Shelter. The dogs were soaking wet and the cages had crud all over. It smelled horrible. I wanted to adopt the dogs just to get them out of those conditions!
The City animal shelter now has the animals spade/nuetured prior to adopting. They treat them with shots. They also will follow up if you haven't gotten your dog spade/nuetered within the 30 days of adoption and verify the conditions. They do request a fenced in yard but no crate. You must also get a license for your pet and have a Vet's name.
You can also adopt pets from your local Vet. Some people will drop of their pets at the Vet and not pick them up. Check with your local Vet to also find good homes. I hope next time you have better luck. I know I did.