If you wanted to drive down to Mariposa, the SPCA there does not put animals down, they keep them 'til they have a home for them. They also maintain a "wish list," if someone wants a small black dog (for example), they go on the list, when one comes in a call is made and fido has a new home. I have seen animals come in and have a new home without even seeing the inside of a cage. Not too long a drive for you. I can give you their phone number if you are interested...