Many people are critical of the county shelters yet I don't see them going to help out. It is easy to blame it on "Where are my tax dollars going?" but if you realized that these shelters are taking in 150 animals PER DAY on average, you would realize that the measely taxes that go to this place don't do much.
I was also disappointed with the conditions so I actively helped. I've volunteered and fostered for them for three years and while there are still issues that need to be worked on, at least I know I'm doing something to help.
These shelters have the lowest adoption prices and the most selection of pets. If you're open to variety, this is the place to go.