Your local SPCA will most likely include the city or county as parts of its name (e.g., Pleasantville SPCA). Many are volunteer non-profits with all foster programs for their rescue animals . Some are larger and operate shelters, paid staff and may have contracts to serve as the shelter for a particular city and/or county. Local humane societies are often similar in nature. These local entities count on your support - they are not getting extra funds from the organizations that have marketed themselves as national animals groups (when they are nothing of the sort)

The ASPCA is also misleading. Unlike HSUS, they do provide care to rescue animals, runs clinics and have a shelter but its located in New York City. Check out their volunteer opportunities and animals available for adoption and you will find that they use the "American" to get people to donate thinking that money will be going to help animals in their own towns. In the past few years they have started some "outreach" programs but they are limited ( and often picked to make the entity seem like it does more nationwide - marketing). There has been a great deal of controversy over the salary of the Executive Director of ASPCA (400,000 - 500,00K plus huge benefit package). A lot of people commenting suggested moving the ASPCA to a less costly location not understanding that, regardless what the name might imply, the services are in NYC - therefore they expenses and salaries match NYC. Note: ASPCA Adoption Center, located at 424 E. 92nd St., between First and York Avenues.