Well, my original vent was just them not replying to applicants in any way, even a FORM response...
...but I'll jump in on the venting about strict requirements, too.
I do understand that SOME dogs NEED a fenced-in yard....and some are NOT suited to living with children....etc....but by not considering each dog or family on an individual basis, I think they really keep a lot of dogs from going to happy homes.
For instance, since I've been applying for animals, I have had a six/seven year old son. Well, this child, from BABYHOOD, has been so good and patient and loving and gentle with animals that I have had people who work intensely with animals tell me that he reminds them of THEM when they were young. Everyone always tells me they think he'll be a vet when he grows up, etc.
And no, I don't have a fenced-in yard, but my yorkies don't go outside off-leash anyway, because of hawks etc. in our area!
Our dogs are members of our family. They are incredibly loved and spoiled. I know that shelters can't know or tell that from a mere "application", and that's why I take the time to write a long email to describe what life is like at our house for our pets.
I know they're busy. But not even replying to people to say THANKS isn't exactly fostering positive relations with the people who are TRYING to help these animals. It's pretty sad when good people get so frustrated trying to rescue that they just throw up their hands and BUY a dog.