Hidden penalties for returning pets - adoption blacklisting
Shelters and breeders make it very clear that they'd prefer for you to return an animal who isn't a good fit (ex. biting, causing excessive damage) for your family rather than sell it/give it away.
But, I had an experience with returning an animal to a shelter and was told I would no longer be eligible to adopt a pet of the same species. Like, ever. I talked to a coworker of mine and she said the same thing happened to her at a pet store (even though she actually was able to adopt another animal after complaining to higher management).
The result has been that I now will never return an animal that's a poor fit, if this happens again. Shelter, breeder, doesn't matter. I've also lost all trust in organization/store staff, and don't feel inclined to be honest with them again-- it makes me want to smile and nod and fill out applications with whatever I think they're looking for rather than be honest.. and of course, just avoid them altogether and adopt privately from local ads. (I'm a little angry, if you can't tell.)
I'm really wondering if these organizations have thought this through..? It seems to me like they're incentivizing dishonesty & selling/giving away animals at best or at worst, dumping them. I would've thought that returning an animal would be the best option for everyone involved, including the animal.
Looking for an explanation/insight..?