I know it's frustrating, but hang in there. I don't know about the shelter you are talking about - but in fairness to shelter workers across the globe, please keep in mind a couple of things.

Shelter work is a highly stressful, high burnout job. Since it doesn't pay much, most get itto the field because they are very committed to animal welfare. After a few years of watching forced euthanasia for varying reasons, the stress can get to be too much and the stress and frustration they feel sometimes comes across as rude behavior.

Shelters are notoriously understaffed. They do not have the manpower or time to follow up to make sure that people follow through with promises. I agree with the shelter that they cannot release the dog for adoption before it is neutered. I know in the city shelter where I volunteer, they do not spay/neuter before adoption, instead requiring a deposit check that the adopter gets back once the spay certificate is brought back. I also know for a fact that there are many times that the alter surgery is not done and the deposit check is never cashed - instead siting in a drawer for years.

Most shelters are open admission facilities, which means they take all animals and then have to make hard decisions. They are not only responsible for the welfare of the animals, but also the welfare of the community. Sometimes the choices they have to make are heartbreaking and a little compassion goes a long way.

Most vets that do work for shelters also have their own practices to maintain. The work they do for the shelters in on their own time, or only during certain days and times. Many times the shelter has to take whatever time the vet can give them and if the vet is especially busy - non emergency services have to wait.

I am by no means defending their actions, I am just trying to explain their side. I would suggest that you contact the director and let him/her know in a friendly and positive way that although you understand how difficult it is for the staff, you are very committed to this adoption and you sincerely want to take this dog into your loving home. Then ask what you can do to expedite the process and make sure that this dog is home before the weekend.

Good Luck - and hang in there.