[header] How to choose a dog adoption agency [title] Conduct a thorough online search. [step] You can find a list of local animal shelters and adoption agencies online. For example, visit the shelter pet project website and enter your zip code to find the organizations in your area that can help you find and adopt a dog from a reputable source. 
The aspca also offers a free online search tool to help find adoptable pets. Other useful websites include petfinder, worldanimal, and adoptapet.