Chef Jimmy,
I do hope you find a forever fur family friend! My wife and I are heavily involved with multiple agencies here on the west coast. We transport, and foster rescue dogs in our home until they are adopted. We have helped hundreds of dogs escape euthanasia. Most of them are from high-kill shelters from Califonia that are brought up to Oregon and Washington. Yes, its all volunteer, No ASPCA is involved. I would be glad to help you out if I could, but PA is just a bit of a reach! Nearly all of the rescues, adoptions, fostering transportation, etc. is all done through networking 99% on facebook based on personal relationships that have been established within the groups.
Bottom line- Find a GOOD rescue! You will surely find them, but some of them are not so good. You can tell a good rescue if the animal has been to a veterinarian, up to date on shots, spayed/neutered shots etc.
But the most important thing you should look for in a rescue is if- (and how long) they vet their dogs. How long has the ANIMAL has been vetted in a foster home since they were rescued or pulled from a shelter. (Vetted- as in "screened for issues").There are many sound benefits for potential adopters for this, but this only adds costs and extra work so most don't do it, and so they turn them fast!
- The true nature of the dog can be observed- gets along with other dogs, kids, cats, abandonment issues, separation anxiety etc.
- They could be carrying contagious illness or disease- The chances the dog has contracted kennel cough, parvo, or a myriad of other things while they were exposed in the shelter are relatively high.
- Discovery of any medical issues- Vet bills are a HUGE cost to rescue, Duh! Wouldn't you rather know what you are getting yourself into or just take your chances?
- Some training
In any case, it all should be a good "fit" for both the adopters as well as the dog. We see a lot of of failed placements nowdays... Not because of the dogs fault... but the people not being realistic with their expectations or not truthful in their applications, etc... You don't have to walk outside your own doorstep very far these days to recognize that people are more dangerous than the dogs.
I hope this sheds a little light... You will find your right buddy! Hang in there!