annoyed that I am moving in 2 weeks to an apartment in which I can have a dog. And I came in today to see how the dogs handle because I it does have to do with shelter life partly. And I was told no.

Those worker's at Bergen are wonderful. Settle into your place first. Then go and look to see what animal you would like to help. They all need it. The senior dogs will melt you heart. Give it a try. Good luck

Most rescues and shelters don't let just anybody hold their dogs. They don't know you and cant trust that something wont happen like a dog getting loose or possibly biting. It's a liability issue not a problem with you specifically. If you were looking to actually adopt and had an idea as to what you had in mind they'd be able to show you a dog that will meet your criteria.