My local SPCA is excellent in that regard. But I know a lot of these animal advocacy groups are often run by shrills, who should not be anywhere near an animal.
If I was to get a dog, I’d probably go to the SPCA or city pound to pick one up.
In fact most areas do not have any presence of any of the national radical pet organizations. If anything they may have some educational relationship with local shleters but the shelters pretty much determine what they want to do, not HSUS.
I have adopted from our local shelter and from the state rescue group for the animals I live with. Both are good. I spent time making the section better for the animals I adopt (small animals) - which are always third in line - if that - behind cats and dogs. They have a great program now because a lot of us pushed for it and spent volunteer time there.